In previous years, the event had only been open to the Court, but as part of the Master’s outreach policy, the whole of the Livery company and guests were invited.
In his speech, Master Selwyn Burchhardt also welcomed the Masters of three other Worshipful Companies: Hugh Stevenson, Master of the Framework Knitters; Keith Arundale, Master of the Marketors and Jonathan Ball, Master of the Chartered Architects and a co-founder of the Eden project.
The guest speaker was Rt Rev Jack Nicholls, Lord Bishop of Sheffield, who gave a humorous but thoughtful talk, reminding the audience that Christmas was a time for generosity and joy and that being joyful was something that you chose to do and everybody could make this choice.
The event included a presentation to Tony Dunn who has retired as treasurer after 10 years.
There was a raffle in aid of the Red Cross and through this and the stall at that charity’s market, the Worshipful Company of Launderers has raised over £4,000.
