A bit of pomp and circumstance

Not quite pomp and circumstance but today was the day that Gavin was inaugurated as a member of the Skinner's Livery Company and given Freedom of the City. This was the event he was meant to attend a few months ago, but due to problems with the rail lines after storms we could not get to London and so he missed the ceremony.

For those not from the UK,  there are a number of Companies of the City of London descended from the medieval trade guilds. They are now largely social and charitable organizations. The Skinners company is one such company, whose trade was originally as furriers (note the fur on the robe worn by the Master) but today their main purpose is as a charitable institution with the focus on schools and alms houses. In medieval times, you had to pass an apprenticeship and then were awarded the Freedom of the City which meant you were allowed to legally trade in London. Today they still have that tradition but of course it is all based on ancient custom and you don't really trade as a furrier. The main purpose is to assist the livery company in terms of your own personal skills to help them run their charitable organisations.

This photo was taken by the beadle after the ceremony whereby Gavin had to swear an allegiance to abide by the rules of the livery company.

Thomas was able to attend and he loved it, he found the traditions and process so fascinating. We then went out for a quick lunch in the city, then Thomas and I came home, Gavin went back to work but now he is on his way to the airport to fly to SA.