Brigantes

7th July 2023

In the North

Brigantes:

The 2023 Brigantes Breakfast, the Northern lunch for City of London Liverymen and their guests, was held at the spectacular Royal Hall in Harrogate. Late Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman Vincent Keaveny CBE, was the Principal Guest. He was joined by Simon Theakson DL, Past Master Brewer, President of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, Hon Alderman of Harrogate Borough Council, Philip Serrell, Antiques Specialist, Author, Broadcaster, Member of the Clothiers Company of Worcester, and Rev Charles Cowling, Past Master Actuary.

The Brigantes Breakfast provides an opportunity for Liverymen of all City of London Companies to meet together in the North. Masters and honoured guests processed from the ornate stage down the steps into the glorious theatre. After lunch, Eur Ing Richard Groome, Past Master Engineer proposed the toasts and Nick Gale, Past Master Plumber gave a very well thought out speech. He methodically wove over 70 names, representing all the Livery Companies who were present, into his introduction. Alderman Vincent Keaveny CBE, Late Lord Mayor of the City of London, current Master Woolman and Past Master Solicitor was eloquent as always, as he gave a lively Response.

After the speeches, musical theatre filled the stage as actors sang poignant songs from ‘Les Miserables’.

A special treat was running into Past Master Turner, Peter Ellis and his wife, Lynette. Will and their granddaughter, Ellie were in prep school together. Peter hails from the North. The day concluded with an obligatory visit to Betty’s. My thanks to Master Fletcher, Andrew Trapnell and his Consort Melanie for treating me!