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APRIL
2015
The Clerk’s Newsletter
CLERK’S CORNER
When April scatters charms of primrose gold
Among the copper leaves in thickets old,
And singing skylarks from the meadows rise,
To twinkle like black stars in sunny skies;
When I can hear the woodland brook, that could
Not drown a babe, with all his threatening mood;
Upon these banks the violets make their home,
And let a few small strawberry blossoms come:
When I can hear the small woodpecker ring
Time on a tree for all the birds that sing;
And hear the pleasant cuckoo, loud and long -The simple bird that thinks two notes a song;
When I go forth on such a pleasant day,
One breath outdoors takes all my cares away;
It goes like heavy smoke, when flames take hold
Of wood that's green and fill a grate with gold.
William Henry Davies
Nigel Bamping
LLB AKC
The Clerk’s
Newsletter
 A monthly publication
giving detail about
forthcoming events
 Reports about past
events
It has felt like a long winter! In his poem ‘April Chorus’, William Henry Davies encourages us
to savour the harbingers of Spring, the wild primroses.
 Detail of the Master’s
diary
March has been a month where we have had some sadness, with the funerals of two senior
members of the Company, Past Masters David Mott and David Holliday. The Holliday family
have been having a particularly difficult time and our thoughts are with Diana and her family
but also with Assistant Phil Holliday who is mourning the death of his daughter.
 News from our
affiliations
The Deputy Master, De Bradshaw, is also in our thoughts following a serious fire at her home
in Devon. Fortunately, no one was hurt but De, Steve and Oliver will be ‘homeless’ for a significant period whilst repairs are carried out.
 News about the Livery
and Liverymen
On a happier note, Past Master Derek Robinson celebrated his 90th birthday on 14th March
with a party for 90 people. Derek still drives and plays golf. He is also a regular attendee at
Company events (see page 2). We look forward to seeing him at the Spring Livery Dinner on
14th April.
Talking of which!.....are you coming? Numbers are disappointing and I am extending the
booking deadline to Monday 30th March. We have to finalise the seating plan that day because of the Easter holiday weekend.
The Royal Marines
In last month’s Newsletter I mentioned the Breakfast we
hosted on Friday 13th March prior to the Service at St
Paul’s Cathedral. I am pleased to say that this went off
very successfully, albeit with some sadness and poignancy. We had been told to expect three triple amputees
with wheelchairs. In the event no wheelchairs materialised. The Bootneck Spirit of these men, determined to
overcome adversity was hugely humbling.
The Commandant General, Major-General Martin Smith MBE was fulsome in his gratitude to
the Plaisterers for our support.
On the previous Friday (6th March) we were pleased to be able to host the London Action
Group for their annual lunch in support of the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund. This
proved to be a great success with the final total raised was £98,000. The LAG were delighted
with the whole event, not least the quality of the food. We hope they will want to come back
again.
Inside this issue:
Clerk’s Corner
1/4
The full spectrum of our
Livery celebrates!!!
2
Masters Diary
3
The Almoner
3
282 (East Ham) ATC
Squadron Dinner
3
City Events
4
Livery News
4
Looking Ahead
4
Page 2
The Spurling Dynasty is in good shape!!
The Spurling family have the longest connection (at least the mid-1800s) with the Company.
Andrew Spurling and his daughter-in-law, Sue are both Liverymen. We have in our sights for
the future Sue’s son, Cameron.
Cameron is a student at Kingston Grammar School and in February became Year 10 National
Indoor Rowing Champion at the London Olympic Velodrome. He rowed 1524 metres in 5
minutes!
The photo is of him with his Gold Medal. The article he wrote for the school magazine is reproduced below. Cameron has not surprisingly been awarded a Rowing Scholarship and our
thoughts are with his Mother as she runs along tow paths in all weathers shouting words of
encouragement!
Past Master Derek Robinson Celebrates!!!!
Past Master Derek Robinson celebrated his 90th birthday at Royal
Wimbledon Golf Club on Saturday 14th March. It was quite fitting that 90
guests attended including the Master, Michael Jones and his wife Heather
together with other distinguished Past Masters and Clerk
Emeritus, Hilary Machtus. In his speech, Derek said how much he
has enjoyed and continues to enjoy the Livery and extended a
special warm welcome to the Master and the other livery guests.
Happy Birthday Derek !
This is only part of Derek’s celebrations. At the end of March his
family, including son Nick and son – in –law David, both of whom
are of course liverymen, will be taking Derek with their families to
Milan. One of Derek’s great passions is opera and Saturday
evening’s treat will be a visit to La Scala to see the opening night
of Carmen. A commentary of the event will follow in next month’s
issue. Watch this space …..
Worshipful Company of Plaisterers
Worshipful Company of
Plaisterers
Page 3
THE MASTER’S DIARY
During March 2015, the Master, Michael Jones, attended the following events on behalf
of the Company. * Indicates he was accompanied by the Mistress
 WET 10 City Water Debate at Launderers’ Hall
 Livery Schools Link Showcase Event at Barber-Surgeons’ Hall
 RMCTF London Action Group Fundraising Lunch at Plaisterers’
BRIAN DINNAGE
Hall*
 Sheriffs’ & Recorder’s Fund ‘More Trial & Error’ at The Old Bailey*
 Hon.Co. of Master Mariners’ Court Luncheon onboard HQS
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Wellington
W/Co of Carpenters’ Livery Spring Dinner at Carpenters’ Hall*
Affiliates Regimental Dinner at Plaisterers’ Hall
W/Co of Masons’ Court Lunch at Mercers’ Hall
St Vedast-alias-Foster, St Patricks Day Reception
W/Co of Chartered Secretaries & Administrators’ Rivers Lecture &
Reception at Saddlers’ Hall
Dinner for Masters, Prime Wardens & Upper Bailiff at Mansion House*
United Guilds Service at St Paul’s Cathedral and Lunch at Plaisterers’ Hall*
W/Co of Masons’ Master’s Banquet at Mansion House*
W/Co of Tallow Chandlers’ Lunch at Tallow Chandlers’ Hall
W/Co of Armourers & Brasiers’ Freemans’ Dinner at Armourers’ Hall
W/Co of Lightmongers’ Annual Livery Dinner at Goldsmiths’ Hall
282 (East Ham) Squadron Dinner
PUTTING ON THE STYLE!!!
Company Almoner
We were sorry to hear that
Brian Dinnage, our Company
Almoner, has recently spent
10 days in hospital suffering
from viral hepatitis and
jaundice.
We are pleased to say that he
is now ‘on the mend’ and we
wish him a speedy recovery.
Brian can be contacted by
email [email protected] if you
know of members who would
appreciate contact from him
or wish to be in touch
yourself.
Report by Upper Warden/Master Elect Bill Mahony
Our shoulders back, dressed in our best, neck hairs standing on end, we trooped down the hallowed corridors of the RAF Club, the walls
lined with memorabilia from RAF adventures, but also lined with smart Air Cadets who saluted us as we approached the reception hall. How
very important we felt!
After another busy year of operations and achievements, 282 (East Ham) Squadron Royal Air Force Air Cadets gave their guests, cadets,
staff, committee members, friends, and family, who were gathered at the RAF Club , an evening of fine dining and entertainment; a glittering
black tie event celebrating the successes of the past few years and looking forward to future challenges.
Located in the beautiful area of London's Mayfair, The RAF Club is a stunning building which offers luxurious and peaceful surroundings to
serving and former serving officers of the RAF and Allied Air Forces, giving an appropriate backdrop to the Squadron's bi-annual Formal
Squadron Dinner.
Having opened its doors in 1922, the Club's interior has been enhanced to a breathtakingly high standard. With striking paintings, a specially
designed and obviously Airforce Themed stained glass window and the unique badge
corridor, a truly fascinating history comes alive about the story of the Royal Air Force; an
appropriate venue for this prestigious event.
During the excellent silver service dinner, over 100 lucky guests were entertained by the
squadron's own excellent duo singing contemporary numbers to a highly professional
standard.
The keynote speech - a brilliant summary of the Squadron's achievements over recent
years, with particular reference to the leadership of Chris Booty their Commanding Officer,
was made by Group Captain Mike Neville of the RAFBF. This emotional address also
made reference to the great support given by many to the Squadron - ourselves includedand the fine achievements and progress which continues to be made.
Their fine band was much in evidence, and all will be pleased to learn that they
continue to use the instruments which we contributed toward with great skill.
I was able to say a few words and on all of our behalves thanked the Squadron
for rewarding our support with their continued progress and excellence.
I really do wish that some of the people who complain about "The youth of
today " could have had the privilege , as we did, of spending such a pleasant
evening amongst a group of young men and women who really knew how to
behave in this awesome setting.
It is great to be able to say that not only are 282 Squadron growing in
achievement, but when they "Put on the Style" they also know how to enjoy
themselves!
CLERK’S CORNER (Continued)
Master’s Outing: Friday 19th June
Details of the visit to the Royal Hospital Chelsea accompanied last month’s Newsletter
and are available on the website. There has been a good initial response but don’t forget
to book during April if you wish to come. The deadline is Friday 1st May 2015.
Worshipful Company of
Plaisterers
Contacting the Company
Ladies Lunch: Monday 11th May
The ‘flyer’ for the Lunch has been sent to you. Please ensure that all ladies associated
with the Company are aware of this event. The deadline is Friday 24th April.
City Article
This month we reproduce the speech given by The Lord Mayor, Alderman Alan Yarrow to
the Masters, Prime Wardens and Upper Bailiff at the Mansion House in March.
Ali and Chris join Angela and I in wishing you all a Happy Easter
The Plaisterers’ Company
Plaisterers’ Hall
One London Wall
London EC2Y 5JU
Phone: 020 7796 4333
Fax: 020 7796 4334
E-mail:
[email protected]
CITY EVENTS
LIVERY NEWS
CITY LIVERY CONCERT
Very many congratulations to
Liveryman Simon Carr and his
wife Stacy on the arrival of
George, a brother for Henry.
George arrived at 8.30am on
Wednesday February 18th
2015, weighing 7lb 12oz.
Congratulations also to Past
Master Nick & Mrs Helen Carr, the proud grandparents.
Sunday 5th July 2015 – Barbican – London Symphony Orchestra
Conducted by Sir Simon Rattle who has recently
been appointed as Musical Director of the London
Symphony Orchestra from 2017, the Concert will
be the first in a series of collaborative projects that
will bring together the London Symphony Orchestra, students from the Guildhall School of Music
and children and adults from the local area. The
programme will feature a new children’s opera by
Jonathan Dove ‘The Monster in the Maze’ alongside Walton’s
First Symphony. The Rt Hon The Lord Mayor, Alderman Alan
Yarrow, has indicated that he will attend .
The City tickets are priced at £40 each and include a souvenir
programme. £10 of the ticket price will go towards the Lord
Mayor’s Appeal. There is a priority booking line with the Barbican Box Office for City members/groups—020 7382 7211 (MonFri, 10am-5pm) and quote “5th July City Livery Allocation” to
access the special seats. Group reservations can be held in advance with preferred payment by credit/debit card required by
Friday 29th May.
CITY GO-KART GRAND PRIX
Sunday 26th July 2015—Sandown Park Racecourse
Livery Companies are invited to enter a team of 4 drivers
together with a manager for this event which will raise funds for
Lord Mayor’s Charity and also for each Companies own Master’s
Charity. The cost will be £200 per person participating, additional
tickets for attendees will cost £38 each.
In addition to the racing there will be
picnic areas, more formal areas to
dine, displays, side-shows and lots to
see and do.
If you are interested in getting
involved, please contact the Clerk’s
Office for more information.
LOOKING AHEAD
Spring Livery Dinner
Tuesday 14th April 2015
282 (East Ham) Air Cadets Presentation Evening
Friday 1st May 2015 – all welcome to attend, held in Newham
Town Hall, please advise the Clerk’s Office if you will be there
Ladies’ Lunch
Monday 11th May 2015
Livery Reception
Wednesday 27th May 2015
Master’s Outing
Friday 19th June 2015
Annual Banquet
Tuesday 7th July 2015
Common Hall, Robing Ceremony & Service and Dinner
Tuesday 21st July 2015
Further details can be obtained from the Clerk’s Office or by visiting
the website www.plaistererslivery.co.uk . Booking forms and event
information are also available on the website.
HMS DRAGON
ON DEPLOYMENT
Update 3:
DRAGON in the
South Atlantic
Report by As s is tant Richard Hanne y
Our affiliated ship HMS DRAGON was on patrol around the Falkland islands for some weeks either side of
Christmas. [See Update 2]. I can report now on DRAGON’s activities that involved the Falkland Islanders and our
soldiers who protect them.
The Ist Falkland Island Scouts Group, led by SLt Dan Battar, enjoyed the chance to take a look at all the Ship's
systems, equipment and take part in some fun hands-on demonstrations of the fire fighting gear and body armour.
Unsurprisingly several of the Scouts confessed to a strong desire to join the Navy. To show their gratitude they
gifted the Ship a very potent cake that was probably more alcohol than cake mixture; needless to say it did not last
very long.
Next the Resident Infantry Company (RIC) embarked
DRAGON on exercise. The RIC is currently the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment. The RIC is part of the UK's commitment
to protect the islands. Onboard as part of the six monthly
exercise (Ex Cape Bayonet) DRAGON was tasked to embark
the company and insert them into positions around the
island, providing Naval Gunfire Support to bombard the shore
ahead of their arrival by helicopter. This was another first for
DRAGON and having 80+ soldiers onboard certainly was a
challenge enjoyed by all - mind you DRAGON’s sailors were
not sure how much their land loving friends liked it; sea sickness was the order of the day for most of them!!
With the army now safely back in their tents it was time for DRAGON to pop over to the Islands capital, Stanley, no
visit to the Falklands would be complete without it. In its own right a very famous place, the town enjoys very
strong links with the Navy and all the DRAGONs enjoyed the chance to meet the locals and see for themselves the
numerous Falkland's War memorials and even the Governor’s House where the whole thing started. DRAGON is
too big to come alongside in Stanley itself, but, nestled safely at her anchorage a mile away, the Ship played host
to both a capability demonstration and, with the help of some very nippy boats provided by the Falkland Island's
Company, was able to open to visitors. Add a visit by the Island's TV and Radio outfits it certainly was a ‘whole
island’ affair.
Even Stanley Growers (the island's fruit and veg suppliers) adapted one of their signs to pay tribute to the visit.
As ever the friendliness of the islanders endured and on
departure DRAGON received a very warm farewell for a
job well done
Continued/….
HMS DRAGON
ON DEPLOYMENT
During the Falklands War in 1982, both HMS Sheffield and HMS
Coventry were lost due to enemy action and each ship has a
memorial on Sealion and Pebble Island respectively. Led by XO and
then CO some DRAGONs made it ashore and spent some time
carrying out some husbandry and maintenance to make sure the
memorials are neat and tidy.
How many Liverymen know the name of the capital of
Tristan da Cunha? Well it's called 'Edinburgh of the Seven
Seas'. Tristan da Cunha was DRAGON’s next destination.
Any visitors (by ship only - there is no airport) are
especially welcome to this remote British Overseas
Territory. However a visit from a United Kingdom warship
is especially welcome to the 257 British citizens.
Tristan (as it is known by the islanders) comprises the most remote inhabited archipelago in the world. It lies
1,243 miles from St Helena, 1491 miles from South Africa and 2088 miles from South America. Tristan's
inhabitants are farmers and fishermen.
The last warship to visit Tristan was HMS
Richmond, a type 23 frigate in November 2013.
With a small harbour the island is not able to
accommodate an 8,500 tonne warship, DRAGON
used her sea boats and Lynx helicopter to ferry
personnel and supplies from ship to shore. The visit
may only have lasted 24 hours but during that time
the Lynx lifted numerous fence posts to otherwise
inaccessible parts of the volcanic island to help
keep cattle from straying. Some personnel went
ashore to climb all 6,765ft of the island's volcano
but could only get as high as the cloud base so
returned to Edinburgh to play football with the
locals.
Tristan relies heavily on crayfish as a source of revenue so, to mix things up a little, DRAGON landed with stores
of pork, sweets and traditional British sauces such as HP - things islanders struggle to get hold of normally.
"Tristan is truly breathtaking and it was fantastic to get ashore and meet the people who were friendly, kind and
really pleased we had taken the time to visit and help them" said Lieutenant Stuart Greig, the Destroyer's
deputy logistics officer. "I know they especially appreciated all the work the ship's flight and Lynx had done for
them". Tristan's administrator Alex Mitham said, "This remote isle receives few visitors, and to welcome a
Royal Navy vessel is very special. On a personal note I cannot thank the ship enough for their incredibly kind
generosity and hospitality - not only hosting the police officer, chief islander and me on DRAGON, but also for
the helicopter support, the patrols for illegal fishing and for the professionalism the whole crew showed
towards the islanders."
Continued/….
HMS DRAGON
ON DEPLOYMENT
After saying goodbye to Tristan, Dragon sailed to the South
African Naval Base at Simon's Town. There is a permanent
reminder of Dragon's first visit to South Africa as a large
painting of the ship's badge adorns the wall of the
cavernous dry dock where Dragon spent her middeployment break, alongside more than 150 crests which
adorn the Norwegian granite walls of the dock in Simon's
Town Naval Base. The dock was built a century ago to
accommodate the largest Royal Navy battleships and battle
cruisers of the day and it became a tradition for sailors to
paint their crests on the wall whilst their vessels were
undergoing maintenance.
The previous DRAGON, a World War 1 cruiser
which served until 1943 used the dock at least
twice, but her insignia was either never added or
has faded over time. The oldest badge on the dock
walls has been dated back to 1922.
Dragon's next port of call was Cape Town where she hosted a number
of local dignitaries including the British Consul in Cape Town who made
a speech in which he mentioned the ties between Great Britain
and South Africa. Also onboard for this auspicious occasion were Past
Master Reg Denby and his wife Pauline who have a house near Cape
Town. Reg tells me that the ship's crew very much appreciate their
affiliation with the Plaisterers’ Company. In the picture you will see Reg
and Pauline with Lt Commander Grant Weedon and the ship's Lynx
helicopter with Table Mountain in the background. Reg passed on the
best wishes of the company to Captain Rex Cox and the crew.
I hope to make a further report before DRAGON returns to Portsmouth in May.
Assistant Richard Hanney