Letters Patent granting our Royal Charter presented by The Earl of Wessex - Vintners' Hall, 7th May 2008.

In Vintners’ Hall, on 7th May, HRH The Earl of Wessex presented us with the Letters Patent granting our Royal Charter; an historic milestone. We were delighted that so many guests joined us: the Lord Mayor was represented by Alderman and Sheriff Ian Luder (himself now Lord Mayor), many of those who helped us reach this point so rapidly and several Masters of other Companies were there.

Much to our delight, Prince Edward managed to meet almost everyone at the reception. At lunch, the Father of the Livery, Past Master David Miller, outlined the journey from Guild to Charter, Immediate Past Master Hugh Morris then introduced Prince Edward, elaborating on the Company’s links with him. Before presenting the Letters Patent, His Royal Highness emphasised the importance of the Charter with a balance of solemnity and humour deftly judged for the occasion. He then proposed a toast to the Company and finally the Master drew the lunch to a close.

Everyone who came will agree that it was a truly memorable occasion and one that lived up to all our expectations.