UK
Traditional values were much to the fore on Monday, 3 July, as Senior Warden Simon Fordham, pictured second from left, was elected by the Court to become Master of the Worshipful Company of Launderers (WCL) for the year 2023 to 2024. Court Assistant Charles Betteridge was elected Senior Warden and Andrew Doyle, Renter Warden. Deputy Master is Sarah Lancaster, the previous Master.
Fordham has had a long career in drycleaning which started in 1973 with Sketchley Cleaners. He pogressed over time into area and regional management representing 80+ branches. He also spent time overseas including setting up and running a laundry and drycleaning business in Abu Dhabi for a local client. Fordham went on to work in the Safeway and Morrisons business as drycleaning team senior manager.
“I retired from full time work in 2016. However, I am a director of a small pub company where I have been involved since 2013. This is my favourite role of all,” joked Fordham.
The Installation Ceremony was held in the Court Room at the Hall, finishing with a blessing of the new Master by the Honorary Chaplain, The Very Reverend Andrew Nunn, Dean of Southwark who then officiated at the Launderers’ Evensong Service at Southwark Cathedral. This was his last official service at the Cathedral as Dean of Southwark, as he has now retired from office but will continue as the Company’s Honorary Chaplain.
Following the service, which included an Act of Dedication by the new Master, guests repaired to the Hall for a celebratory dinner with family, friends and colleagues.
