AUTUMN 2021 | No. 24
THE CLOTHWORKER
www.clothworkers.co.uk
WHAT’S INSIDE ... INTRODUCING THE LEEDS INSTITUTE OF TEXTILES AND COLOUR (LITAC)
MESSAGE FROM THE MASTER, PHILIP PORTAL 4
REFLECTING ON OUR FUTURE
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NEW MEMBERS
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SUPPORTING REFUGEES IN RETURNING TO WORK
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reetings to all Clothworkers! I feel honoured and privileged to have been elected to serve as the 502nd Master of this great company. It has been fascinating to be increasingly involved in its remarkable activities over the past decade, and I am much enjoying being immersed in the Clothworkers’ world over this year. OUR COMMUNITY
CHARITY BANK: A BANK FOR GOOD
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BRADFORD TEXTILE SOCIETY DESIGN COMPETITION
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NEW DESIGNERS
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CHAMPIONING TRUSTEESHIP THROUGH PARTNERSHIP
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47 SQUADRON
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First, we need to find our ways back to one another. It has been a long time. I am much looking forward to seeing many of you shortly – our doors are already opening for our traditional lunches, dinners, sporting, cultural and other ‘fellowship’ events, as well as our all-important committee meetings, with all the appropriate health precautions in place. Please do seek me out at these events – even if we do not yet know each other. We also plan to continue our online programme of virtual events, which can reach almost everyone, wherever you are… CHANGE!
HONOUR AND PRAISE FOR THE FANY
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TRIBUTES
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CHELSEA PENSIONERS
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INTER-LIVERY SPORTS
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NEWS & NOTICES
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The pace of change in our world has increased over our lifetimes. As I told the Court at my Installation on 21 July, I see it as part of my job as Master to help ensure the Clothworkers’ is in tune with and keeping up with these changes. And we need to do so while at the same time sustaining the wonderful traditional foundations upon which The Company has been built over nearly 500 years. The guest speaker at our October Court and Livery Dinner was a global expert in identifying the key emerging trends unfolding in our world – Ben Page, UK and shortly global CEO of Ipsos Mori. POST COVID-19 – OUR WORLD TODAY
Cover: Rhombus Design (digital fabric, deadstock viscoses) by Jessica Turnbull, Bradford Textile Society Design Competition prize winner.
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As we start a new Clothworkers’ year, we need to be aware that nothing will be quite the same. We have each experienced different forms and degrees of hardship over this past 18 months. Our families and friends have all been affected. Businesses have been closed. And the fallout from COVID-19 in the UK and Europe pales in comparison with the extent of the hardship in so many less wealthy countries around the world, which still remain desperately short of vaccines. The Olympics and other sporting events over recent months once again inspired hope to many of us. However, Sir David Attenborough’s ‘A Life on Our Planet’ as well as the UN IPCC report (August 2021) on the pace of climate change – and the real and urgent threats to our habitable world over the next 10 to 30 years – challenge us to face and address the scale of the
practical issues confronting us as a human race today. The UN Climate Change Conference (COP 26) in Glasgow this November will be a crucially important decision-making forum and deserves attention from all of us. While we cannot alone change the world, our purpose as a Clothworkers’ community is certainly to try to improve it, in a whole variety of ways. We all have some familiarity with the substantial grant-making of both The Company and The Clothworkers’ Foundation to a myriad of thoroughly researched and excellent causes, including The Foundation’s very substantial extra COVID-19 emergency response, here in the UK and (albeit to a small extent) in the developing world (read more about Proactive Grants on The Foundation’s website). MANAGING AND BUILDING OUR WEALTH The work of our Finance and Investment Committee, which takes care of The Company’s wealth and keeps generating more so that our charitable giving can keep increasing, can sometimes seem invisible despite its vital importance. As a personal finance professional, the committee’s work is a key interest of mine. Major steps are currently being made towards both The Company and The Foundation becoming what is now known as ‘socially responsible’ or ‘ESG’ investors (taking account of environmental, social and governance issues as we achieve our investment goals).
Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury. Many of us have heard his inspiring talks on several of the above topics: I am much looking forward to hearing his pre-Christmas message to us at Clothworkers’ Hall. OUR OWN GOVERNANCE
Another notable recent development is the increasingly global diversification of our non-property portfolio, which I see as essential in today’s world. While nationalism has been on the rise, our investments do not all need to be subject to national barriers.
We have been scrutinising our own internal governance this year. Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) working group of members and staff has worked with the Court to recommend improvements, some of which will inevitably be uncomfortable and challenging, but worthwhile. Following from this, a new Structure and Governance working group and a Mission, Objects, Vision and Values (MOVV) group (drawn from members), have commenced work to help us understand who we are as an organisation today, and how we move forward, upholding our long legacy while staying relevant to our members, our industry and our charitable beneficiaries. The MOVV chair says more about this on page 10.
DECEMBER DINNER
50 FENCHURCH STREET
My speaker at our December Court and Livery Dinner will be the Most Reverend
Meanwhile, we are at a further exciting phase in our major building project –
the redevelopment of the Hall Island Site, also known as the ‘50 Fenchurch Street’ project. Discussions continue with a number of interested parties: I would be delighted if the right partners could be put in place this year for this transformational project. A major benefit of this not yet having happened is that we shall be able enjoy our wonderful livery hall and premises for the whole of my Master’s Year! OUR MAJOR TEXTILES GRANT Back to our roots, our activities in textiles reached a peak last year when Alex Nelson, my predecessor, signed a historic agreement for The Company to grant £8.9 million to help launch the new Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour, the first payment being due this year. This is the largest grant The Company has ever made into textiles – or anywhere – and starts the countdown to our 500th birthday in 2028. THIS YEAR... …looks very full and exciting! I wish us all good health and a thoroughly enjoyable and successful year ahead. Philip Portal, Master master2021@clothworkers.co.uk THE CLOTHWORKER | AUTUMN 2021
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INTRODUCING THE LEEDS INSTITUTE OF TEXTILES AND COLOUR (LITAC)
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he new University of Leeds institute will tackle global challenges – such as those created by fast fashion, and the need for advanced materials, manufacturing processes and sustainable products – by partnering with industry to apply the world-class research expertise found across a wide range of disciplines at the University. Stephen Russell, Professor of Textile Materials and Technology in Leeds School of Design and the founding Director of LITAC, said: ‘Textiles and colour are fundamental to the function and appearance of countless products used by society, and the industry as a whole is looking to innovate at every stage of the supply chain, to increase competitiveness, address environmental impacts, and drive sustainable growth. ‘Whether it is significantly reducing waste, or a lack of transparency in the global fashion industry, creating new materials to rapidly diagnose infection in healthcare, or deploying artificial intelligence to decide the colour of products and increase their value, we can help with these sorts of diverse challenges. Our expertise across the University – in design, science and engineering – make us ideally placed to build on existing relationships.’ Leeds has an internationally recognised history in teaching and research into textiles and colour, going back almost 150 years. The Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour brings together existing areas of excellence, including the Future Fashion Factory (FFF), the 3D Weaving Innovation Centre (3DWIC), the Design Centre for Colour, and the Clothworkers’ Centre for Textile Materials Innovation
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for Healthcare (CCTMIH.) Since 2018, Future Fashion Factory (FFF) has helped businesses to develop sustainable processes and digital tools to guide design and manufacturing processes from start to finish, analysing demand, increasing agility and reducing waste. Meanwhile, Clothworkers’ Centre for Textile Materials Innovation for Healthcare, which was founded in 2012 with an anchor donation from The Clothworkers’ Company, works to develop enabling technologies based on advances in textile science and engineering – from bioactive wound dressings that speed up healing rates to implantable devices that promote cell regeneration. Brought together, these flagship centres of excellence will help one another achieve even greater leaps in research, development and innovation. THE CLOTHWORKERS’ COMPANY & LEEDS Alongside the contributions of the University, LITAC has received a significant investment of £8.9m from The Clothworkers’ Company – although we’re a City of London livery company, we focus on supporting the UK textiles industry through education, research, skills development and training. Jocelyn Stuart-Grumbar, Clerk to The Company, said: ‘We believe that the Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour will be a strong, collaborative force that will shape the future of the textiles industry. Our co-investment with the University of Leeds represents the largest single funding commitment that The Clothworkers’ Company has ever made. (continued on page 8...)
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“We believe that the Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour will be a strong, collaborative force that will shape the future of the textiles industry. Our co-investment with the University of Leeds represents the largest single funding commitment that The Clothworkers’ Company has ever made. ” Jocelyn Stuart-Grumbar, Clerk to The Company
Immediate Past Master and First Warden Alex Nelson with Vice Chancellor of the University of Leeds Professor Simone Buitendijk. Together, they sign the agreement between The Clothworkers’ Company and Leeds University to establish the Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour. THE CLOTHWORKER | AUTUMN 2021
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INTRODUCING THE LEEDS INSTITUTE OF TEXTILES AND COLOUR (CONTINUED...) ‘It further affirms our belief in the capability of the University of Leeds to build effective partnerships with the textiles industry across the UK and internationally, and to foster intelligent, innovative and environmentally sustainable solutions to society’s needs.’ Professor Russell added: ‘We are collaborative and international in our outlook. Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour is built on a heritage of nearly 150 years of teaching and research in colour and textiles on the same site in Leeds, and we are proud to have been supported by The Clothworkers’ Company since our foundation in 1874.’ TERRIFIC ASSET FOR UK TEXTILES The new institute has been welcomed by industry leaders. Adam Mansell, CEO of the UK Fashion & Textiles Association, said: ‘The current renaissance in UK manufacturing means that factors such as sustainability are more important than ever. ‘LITAC has the expertise to inform the future of UK textile manufacturing and acts as a hub for collaboration, bringing together critical partners from all over the world to make a difference.’ And Paul Johnson, Managing Director of Huddersfield’s WT Johnson & Sons, one of the world’s leading textile dyeing and finishing companies, added: ‘Innovation and the adoption of new technologies are critically important for manufacturing in the UK. ‘There is increasing evidence of small- and medium-sized enterprises involved in textiles’ manufacturing collaborating with each other and with
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universities. LITAC will accelerate this collaboration and will be a terrific asset for UK textiles.’
institute brings to work with business and industry all over the world to tackle pressing environmental concerns.’
STUDENT EDUCATION
Professor Russell added: ‘Alongside The Clothworkers’ Company, which regulated a part of the textile trade in medieval London, the Leeds City Region has been a world leader in high-quality textile manufacturing for centuries. LITAC will build on that legacy.
Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour will harness the collective strength of universities in the Yorkshire and Humber region, which collectively enrol some 2,000 students in fashion, design, textiles and colour disciplines each year. It will address gaps in skills and professional development, including those in technical manufacturing, digital technology and the circular economy. LEEDS – A CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE Gilda Smith-Leigh, Senior Economic Development Officer at Leeds City Council, welcomed the institute’s inception, drawing on Leeds as a centre of excellence: ‘The city of Leeds has a rich clothmaking heritage, and the University leads the sector in textiles research and innovation. ‘I welcome the opportunities that the
‘With core expertise in polymer science, textile technology, textile and fashion design, colour chemistry and technology, we are ideally placed to contribute to future developments.’ Judith Rosser-Davies, Head of Government Relations and Education at the British Fashion Council, said: ‘Through our Institute of Positive Fashion, we encourage the industry to actively participate in a network to accelerate a successful circular fashion economy. ‘To address global challenges in our industry – including sustainability – we need to fully understand the issues and the latest research, working together with higher education
experts such as LITAC to seek realworld solutions.’ Professor Andrew Chitty, Challenge Director, Creative Industries Clusters Programme, UKRI, said: ‘The launch of the Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour is testament to the work that has been achieved by Future Fashion Factory as part of the UKRIfunded Creative Industries Clusters Programme. ‘Under Steve Russell’s leadership, FFF have demonstrated the value of industry and university collaboration in applied creative research and the opportunities for the future. ‘Committing to a long-term partnership in the form of a new institute shows that R&D in the creative industries can now be regarded by research-intensive universities as opportunities for collaboration between research and industry partners as valuable as those in STEM areas. ‘That’s an enormous step forward for the sector, and a huge tribute to the pioneering efforts of the Future Fashion Factory team.’
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REFLECTING ON OUR FUTURE
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uring our first virtual annual meeting (2020), Lucy Rawson (Chair of The Clothworkers’ Foundation) gave a presentation to members on the ways in which The Foundation was responding to the specific needs of disadvantaged minority communities. We had all just witnessed George Floyd’s death, but had not yet seen the full extent of how this would reverberate around the world. As many people already know, the UK would go on to experience some of the largest Black Lives Matter protests outside the United States before the end of the summer, forcing many people and organisations into a long-overdue period of reflection on our own responsibility in building a more equitable society. It was part of an ongoing conversation at The Foundation and how it could better support charities working with communities experiencing racial inequality. It was also the beginning of a discussion for The Clothworkers’ Company, where we wanted to understand to what extent our organisation might have links to historic systems of inequality (like the slave trade) and how we might evolve as an organisation to better uphold values of equity, diversity and inclusion; to recognise and work to deconstruct institutional racism or systems of inequality; and to articulate a mission and vision for The Company to honour its legacy and help it thrive for another 500 years or more. These conversations continued, and paved the way for self-reflection and action. Court Assistant Joanna Dodd has been deeply involved with this discussion, and presented an update to members at the most recent virtual annual meeting (June 2021). An extract is below: ‘As you may have read in the message
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from the Clerk in the Members’ Supplement, our outward-looking philanthropic stance very much binds us together as an organisation with, I think, something of an instinctive need and ambition to reflect our society in order that we might better serve it. ‘Within that context, I want to provide you with a brief update on what the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Working Group has done and where we currently stand. The Group was formed and met virtually every week from mid-January to mid-March, and comprised members of staff and members of the Court offering different experiences and perspectives. Foundation Grants Officer Ayesha Tariq, Event Co-ordinator Catherine Mann and Membership and Communications Manager Renée LaDue represented the staff team. From the Court, Andy Wates, Cordelia Rogerson, Hanif Virji and John Wake contributed to the discussions, whilst we were joined by Clerk Joss StuartGrumbar and Chair of Superintendence Committee Michael Jarvis, who served as advisers.’ Critically, the EDI Working Group also appointed Dinah Cox, an external facilitator, to lend her expertise in helping us navigate complex and difficult conversations.
special asset we have in the family bonds and traditions that bind us together as Clothworkers. I should say that our remit and focus was very much around our current structure and governance, and what could be done within that to facilitate more EDI thinking and action within [our organisation] whilst acknowledging that further change may be sought in the future.
‘Together, we shared our own EDIrelated skills from our individual working lives – including knowledge of EDI programmes and activity as well as experience from our personal lives in terms of encountering racism, prejudice or discrimination.
‘One of the significant points of discussion we held early on was related to our values. In particular, we wanted to review those values and check that they were fit for purpose in a modern society. However, we discovered that there was actually little in written or visible form (for either members or indeed the wider world) about the Clothworkers’ values or vision, or even objects and mission. We allocated time and began to capture the essence of our shared values. We believe this is important not just for those of us already in The Company, but as a statement of exactly what we stand for and believe in, to others who might be interested in The Company in the future, whether as prospective members, partners or recipients of funding. In the commercial world, the concept of communicating brand values and corporate brand purpose is increasingly better understood. We read and agreed with reports that talk about more diverse companies and boards (including those in the charity world) being a force for good, and we see our interest in a more diverse membership being another logical step in The Company’s evolution …
‘We shared a common view that The Company could, should and would want to do more to ensure that it kept pace with a changing society whilst recognising and relishing the very
‘The EDI Working Group didn’t work in isolation, we reported back to the Court and wider staff team with fortnightly updates, encouraging and welcoming the challenge of diverse
opinions. We had an enormous and wide range of reading to do! We could not, after all, champion inclusivity without taking others’ views on board.’ The EDI Working Group concluded its discussions with the Court Assistants presenting (on behalf of the whole working group) recommendations to the Court, which has had a number of opportunities to consider the recommendations and agree on next steps in taking action. ‘In very broad terms, which necessarily cannot do justice to the whole gamut of what was discussed in the working group, our current EDI focus can be summarised around the need and desire to improve communication and training. ‘The Clerk is now seeking providers who will be able to deliver training on EDI-related topics to ensure that our knowledge as an organisation keeps developing and improving… ‘We recognise that our staff team are constantly evaluating and improving our communication – our new websites, annual reports, newsletters and social media are all of a consistently high standard for example. But we also believe there is more we can do to foster better understanding across our members, particularly at key stages of Clothworkers’ lives to ensure that we continue to share knowledge and get the best from our members.’ Some of the measures Joanna articulated included developing an appropriate way (respecting GDPR) of measuring diversity in our membership so that we can see how we evolve over time; making our membership recruitment process (through both Patrimonial means as well as Redemption) more transparent and inclusive; improving communication with members to help them understand how they can support the mission of The Company; improving the induction process for those approved for Election to the Livery, appointed to the Court or hired as part
The 2020-21 Court of Assistants, with Immediate Past Master Alex Nelson (centre, front row) and current Master (then First Warden) Philip Portal to Alex’s left.
of the staff team; reviewing our governance processes to ensure we are upholding best practice internally for equity, diversity and inclusion across our Court and Committees; and beyond. ‘Importantly, while we follow through on the recommendations of the EDI Working Group, we are pleased to report that EDI is already finding its place in elements of Clothworker life – the fact that we began to address the topic has had the effect of, quite naturally, moving it into a normal part of our day-to-day work and awareness. All committees and their committee chairs are being asked to consider the tenets of EDI and how best to encourage these in their remit and to formally report on EDI (annually), with the Superintendence Committee then updating the Court … [Articulating this in the agenda] across our governing structure and beyond, gives us confidence that we will embrace change and begin to see substantial progress.’ Further to the action points Joanna Dodd described in her update to members in June, the Court has also convened two separate groups to help shape the future of our organisation. This includes a Governance and Structure Working Group, which is
reviewing our governing documents, governing structure, procedures and processes. The aim is to ensure that we are able to implement the changes that we recognise are needed now to uphold our ambition to improve equity, diversity and inclusion throughout The Company, but also that we may continue to evolve and change to remain relevant to our members and wider communities in the future. Also, a Mission, Objects, Vision and Values group, reporting to the Superintendence Committee, is spending time reviewing and redeveloping a clear mission statement, and vision and values system to help us understand who we are as Clothworkers and what we aim to do as an organisation for our members, partners, grant recipients and other communities here in the City of London and across the UK. Although some of this work will be less obvious to members as it is put into practice, we hope Clothworkers will be supportive when asked for help in realising our goals. Additionally, we hope that our success in meeting these goals may be evidenced, over time, by a noticeable shift in increasingly more inclusive and equitable experiences for members and guests at all our events or through all the work that we do across the organisation. THE CLOTHWORKER | AUTUMN 2021
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NEW MEMBERS (FREEDOM ADMISSIONS, JULY 2021) Brigadier Harry Nickerson Harry is the owner and managing director of Cour Ltd, a renewable energy, farming and property company in Argyll. Previously, he served in the Army, achieving the rank of Brigadier and appointment as Regimental Lieutenant Colonel of the Scots Guards. He has seen active service during tours of Northern Ireland, the first Gulf War, Afghanistan and Iraq. Harry commanded the 1st Battalion Scots Guards in Germany and Iraq, then 49 (East) Brigade in the East of England, and – finally – the Joint Air Land Organisation. He was the Senior British Officer and head of operational planning in the Turkish-led, International Security and Assistance Force (Afghanistan). He coordinated all ceremonial operations in London as the Brigade Major of the Household Division, and worked in the Directorate of Operational Capability, for the Chief of the Defence Staff. Harry now serves as a chair and trustee on several
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charities, enjoys music as well as sailing, flying, shooting, and engineering. Harry was admitted to the Freedom and became an Honorary member of the Livery on the same day.
Nelson Ahonsi Nelson received a BSc in Quantity Surveying from the University of Westminster and is a Chartered Surveyor today. Before he became an Associate Director at Savills, he was an Associate who provided strategic capital allowances advice during transactions for investors, solicitors and accountants; valued capital allowances on acquisitions and capital expenditure projects for all commercial property use classes; and negotiated valuations with HMRC and Valuation Office Agency.
He enjoys travelling and food, and is also interested in real estate and mentoring.
Pranav Bhanot Pranav is a solicitor at Meaby & Co Solicitors LLP and founder of the online legal platform, TheWeddingLawyer.co.uk. He is a co-founder and trustee of the charity Make It Beat and volunteers on numerous community projects. He studied at University of Manchester, UCL, BPP University and trained in the City before becoming a solicitor. Pranav is a Parish and District Councillor in his local area and recently served as chair of Chigwell Parish Council. His interests include fitness, travelling and reading.
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Cherica’s work takes inspiration from traditional techniques whilst drawing from newer material and/or processes. She has passion and creativity and appreciates design from all disciplines. She has transitioned from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and currently works for McLaren Automotive as one of three Senior Colour and Material Designers showcasing super cars to McLaren’s Ultimate Series Clientele in their luxury customer journey department. In 2021, she acted as a judge for The Clothworkers’ Company Associate Prize in Printed Textiles Design for New Designers.
Ian Maclean MBE Cherica Haye
This September, Nelson moved to the US to begin a master’s in Real Estate Finance and Investment Banking at Cornell University.
designs and future forecasting for couture houses.
As an alumna of both the Royal College of Art and Central Saint Martins, Cherica has an eye for colours, materials and design. Her extensive experience in the areas of material construction and design has made her an ideal candidate for the fashion, automotive and sportswear industries. She has worked with Alexander McQueen, Audi, Jaguar, Land Rover, and LuluLemon brands. She has also spent time in Italy, working for Ratti spa textile mills developing current fabric
Ian is currently the Managing Director at John Smedley Ltd, Director and Vice-Chairman of UK Fashion Textiles, and a trustee at both The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust and John Smedley Archive Charitable Trust. Ian was awarded an MBE in October 2020 for his service to the UK textiles industry. He is a grantee for two Royal Warrants, from Her Majesty The Queen and HRH The Prince of Wales. Ian has an MBA from Open University and an MA from
Cambridge. In his free time, he enjoys sport (in particular rugby), art, music, literature, fishing, shooting and yoga.
Mark Rooney Mark holds an ONC and HNC in Chemistry. Formerly the Group Managing Director at SIL Holdings, Mark is now the Divisional Managing Director at Premier Modular, one of the UK’s leading modular building specialists. With 15 years’ experience in leadership roles, 10 years were spent in the construction hire space. He is now responsible for Premier’s highly successful Hire Division, from business development and project delivery to managing and developing the company’s expanding fleet of modular buildings for hire. He enjoys keeping fit with sports like golf and walking, as well as travel.
tennis, football, and skiing.
Matthew Adams Currently a student, Matthew is studying Mathematics at Cambridge University. A fifth-generation Clothworker, Matthew is the son of Christopher Adams, Livery member. The Adams connection goes back to 1867, when George Turner Adams, a silversmith, was admitted to the Freedom by Redemption.
Louise James Now retired, Louise worked in marketing and sales as a Client Services Director. She currently volunteers her time with a number of local charities including Dogs for Good and as part of the acquisitions and exhibitions team at a local museum in Oxfordshire.
Our July 2021 Freedom Admissions included seven Redemption candidates and
Timothy Shields Tim lives in London, where he works as a Paediatric hospital doctor. He trained at medical school in Devon. Tim plays the violin in an amateur orchestra and enjoys attending pop and classical music concerts in London, including events at the Barbican and the Royal Albert Hall Proms. He enjoys opera and theatre, as well as travelling, cycling,
Louise is passionate about tennis, and also enjoys being a member of a walking group. She loves travel, particularly to Uganda, where she has done volunteer work.
two candidates who are continuing their families’ tradition by joining The Clothworkers’ Company.
She is a seventh-generation Clothworker, the daughter of Annabel James (née King). The King family connection dates back to 1792, when Thomas King, son of a carpenter, was apprenticed to John Yarnton, a packer in Coleman Street. Thomas (junior) was made Free in 1799. THE CLOTHWORKER | AUTUMN 2021
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SUPPORTING REFUGEES IN RETURNING TO WORK RefuAid North West Refugee Nurses Programme and Equal Access Loan Scheme
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n May, the BBC reported on a unique programme at Liverpool John Moores University that was fast-tracking the registration of qualified refugee nurses into the NHS, helping the UK meet the rising demands of the pandemic and more. The North West Refugee Nurses Programme was developed by Steven Colfar, Director of Nursing for the North West at NHS England and NHS Improvement, alongside the charity RefuAid. Mr Colfar said, ‘We listened to the personal stories of the individual refugee nurses. As healthcare professionals, they find it extremely difficult to restart their careers. You land here, you have no support, often no money, no idea how to get registered, and you’re just trying to survive. ’ The four-week programme involves practical exercises in an NHS hospital simulation environment, work on how to communicate with patients and help with the English language. Nurses have their qualifications and previous employment checked, and are helped to register with the UK’s Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). The first pilot course ran in February with 14 refugees – four men and 10 women from Ethiopia, Sudan, Iran, Philippines, Gambia, Honduras and Myanmar. They were all referred by RefuAid. Mona Hamid, from Sudan, was also on the pilot – she qualified as a nurse in 2017 but hadn’t yet been able to work in the UK. ‘When you come here not knowing anyone, it’s so difficult to find your way. When I found out about this programme from RefuAid, I cried,’ she said. ‘I felt homeless before. And on this course, they make you feel important
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and really supported. They fill in any gaps in your knowledge.’ The course costs £2,150 per person, and participants who then find a job are eligible for £1,000 in relocation support while they wait for their first pay packet. Most asylum seekers are not allowed to work in the UK while their applications are considered – although they may have qualifications in their own countries. ‘People are going from a position of total helplessness to a position that they could lead a real new life,’ Mr Colfar said of the course. ‘If we did not do anything, they would be assigned to a life that would require social security support or a low-paid job. This is about making them realise the potential they already had. They will be able to be independent, so the return on this little investment is huge.’ But Kate Higgins, Director of Operations at RefuAid, says time is of the essence, as the longer healthcare professionals are out of work, the harder it is to re-qualify. ‘We’ve developed a support structure and set of resources that provides a template for how to integrate displaced talent into the NHS in the hopes of repeating it across the UK.’ The North West Refugee Nurses Programme (and its partners) was honoured this September with the Gold Award in Community Partnership from the Global Good Awards 2021. Although this programme is funded by NHS England and Improvement, RefuAid is working to support refugees into qualified work in other areas as well, by providing access to language tuition,
education, finance and employment opportunities. The charity’s Equal Access Loan scheme provides interest-free loans to cover the cost of requalification for people who have claimed asylum in the UK. Assessing individual applicants’ language needs and requalification potential to create a tailored learning plan, RefuAid may provide interest-free loans of up to £10,000 over four years, which recipients pay back in manageable instalments over time. The average salary of these candidates before they receive an Equal Access Loan is £7,494, whereas the average salary post requalification is £35,608 – representing a life-changing opportunity for those who have already suffered the trauma of forced migration and are trying to rebuild their lives here in the UK. As of July, the charity had lent £1,117,000 in interest-free loans to support nearly 200 refugee professionals in returning to work – including doctors, lawyers and engineers. In 2021, The Clothworkers’ Foundation made a social investment of £200,000 to RefuAid to support this vital work, joining other social investors such as Barrow Cadbury Trust, Comic Relief and Joseph Rowntree Foundation. The BBC story was ‘Covid: Refugee Nurses are Being Fast-Tracked into the NHS’ by Catrin Nye (10 May 2021).
CHARITY BANK: A BANK FOR GOOD The Clothworkers’ Foundation Invests £1 million, Alongside Other Major Funders
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he Clothworkers’ Foundation has invested £1m in Charity Bank, the loans and savings bank for charities, social enterprises and people who want to make the world a better place. Charity Bank uses its savers’ deposits and shareholders’ investments to provide loans to UK organisations working to drive positive social change – bringing benefits for people, communities and the environment. By leveraging the investment by The Clothworkers’ Foundation with deposits, the bank will be able to make more than £8m in new loans to UK charities and social enterprises at a time when the social sector is in acute need of sustainable financing solutions. This investment is part of a successful £5m capital raise by the bank. All of Charity Bank’s shareholders are charitable trusts, foundations, or social-purpose organisations. The bank believes new investments like this are evidence of the growing appetite among trusts, foundations and other impact-first organisations to make social investments (alongside grantmaking) that can help them meet their social impact objectives. The Clothworkers’ Foundation started its social investment programme in 2017 (with an initial designation of £750,000 from The Clothworkers’ Company). Ed Siegel, Chief Executive, Charity Bank, said, ‘With this additional investment, we will be able to expand and broaden our support, helping more charities and social enterprises access the funding they need to sustain and grow their services.’ ‘UK charities and social enterprises are
responding to an array of urgent social than 1,000 loans totalling over £350m issues, but following an extended to housing, education, social care, period of public budget austerity, many community and other social purpose have struggled to secure sufficient organisations. Charity Bank aims to funding. The effects of the coronavirus use its expertise, commitment and pandemic have flexible approach only made this to lending to help “We are thrilled to join situation worse. charities and social Charity Bank’s inspiring In the midst of enterprises get the COVID-19 the support and group of shareholders crisis, when many funding they need. and are excited that lenders moved this further investment to the sidelines, A Charity Charity Bank Bank loan of ours into the social approved a record sector will be multiplied recently helped level of new loans. Collaborative to benefit many charities The new equity Women purchase and social enterprises.” investments we their first property. have secured The social will enable us enterprise offers Michael Jarvis, Clothworker to continue to accommodation grow our lending for single women and to offer the bespoke financing fleeing gender-focused abuse and solutions that will be needed by many provides them with the support they organisations as they rebound from need to escape the cycle of domestic the effects of the pandemic.’ violence. As well as providing a safe haven for its vulnerable residents, the Michael Jarvis, Chair of The property is now an asset base for the Clothworkers’ Foundation Social social enterprise so that they can access Investment Sub-Committee said, more funding for future growth. ‘Charity Bank’s social impact multiplier effect was a key motivation behind our Watford Mencap will soon be moving investment. For every £1m of investment into its new community hub, thanks to a capital, Charity Bank can raise around £1m loan from Charity Bank. The charity £7m of savings and therefore make offers a wide range of activities for more than £8m of social loans. When children and adults who have a learning the loans are repaid, these funds can disability. The new hub will bring all of be recycled again and again, generating Watford Mencap’s services together in even greater multiples of social impact. one place and be used by hundreds of We are thrilled to join Charity Bank’s children and adults every year. inspiring group of shareholders and are excited that this further investment Find out more: www.CharityBank.org. of ours into the social sector will be multiplied to benefit many charities and Nothing in this publication constitutes social enterprises.’ advice or a recommendation. Professional advice should be taken Since 2002, the bank has made more before any course of action is pursued. THE CLOTHWORKER | AUTUMN 2021
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BRADFORD TEXTILE SOCIETY DESIGN COMPETITION 2021
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stablished in 1893, the Bradford Textile Society is the oldest textile society in Britain, if not the world. Despite all the changes that have taken place in the textile industry since its formation, the Society continues to thrive, providing an opportunity for everyone with an interest in textiles to meet and discuss textile-related topics. The Clothworkers’ Company is proud to sponsor six awards in the Bradford Textile Society’s annual Design Competition, and is grateful for the support of Clothworker Emily May, who served as a judge again for the awards. One of the 2021 winners, Hannah, said: ‘I’m so excited to say I have [received] First Prize for The
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Clothworkers’ Company Award for “A woven fabric design for fashion or accessories” in the [Bradford Textile Society competition]. I submitted [my] design alongside a moodboard, fashion illustration and supporting sample designs. I chose my favourite sample ... It was one of the most timeconsuming pieces, one that I found visually beautiful and came from wellresearched inspiration. Absolutely thrilled and so proud of myself for achieving this award amongst so many fabulous designers.’ Winners of Clothworkers’ awards: • Knitted Fabric for Fashion or Interiors (K1): Jessica Turnbull, Glasgow School of Art • Printed Textile for Fashion or Interiors (First Year Undergraduate
Students) (P3): Sarah Mills, Birmingham City University • Woven Fabric for Fashion or Accessories (W1F): Hannah Bryant, University of Brighton • Woven Fabric for Interiors (W1N): Jackie Stephens, Carmarthen School of Art • Fabric Design for Fashion/ Accessories or Interiors Demonstrating Innovative Processes (C1): Sophie Downes, Glasgow School of Art • Material Construction for Fashion/Accessories or Interiors Produced with Unconventional or New Technologies (U1): Penny Kowalkowski, De Montfort University
“Thank you ... for choosing my Rhombus fabric as the first place winner of this year’s competition. Rhombus knitted fabric incorporates movement and a sustainability together to create a fabric with a playful, stimulating nature.” Jessica Turnbull, K1 Winner
Facing page: Penny Kowalkowski won for her shaped knitwear with leather and heat transfer vinyls (left). Hannah Bryant won an award for her ‘dreamlike’ soft, woven fabric. This page: Jessica Turnbull’s Rhombus, winner in the Knitted Fabric for Fashion or Interiors, which is featured on the cover. THE CLOTHWORKER | AUTUMN 2021
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NEW DESIGNERS 2021 Clothworkers’ Associate Prize for Printed Textile Design
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ongratulations to Ying (‘Vicky’) Huang, who received The Clothworkers’ Company Associate Prize for Printed Textile Design at New Designers in June. Vicky attended the Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design (University of Dundee), and planned to join a textiles master’s programme at the Royal College of Art this autumn. The work she submitted to New Designers, entitled Wandering Down The Garden Path – Joy of Print, celebrates her experience of walking in nature and being inspired by British botanical gardens and wild paths. Her aim was to appreciate the beauty of native flora and the subtle and slower movements of everyday life. The Clothworkers’ Associate Prize was judged by Emily May (a Clothworker and former New Designers’ prize winner herself ) and Cherica Haye (who was admitted to the Freedom this past July). In reviewing Vicky’s work, our judges said, ‘We were really impressed by Vicky’s
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development of traditional processes, and the way she kept us excited while talking us through every stage of her project, right the way out the other side and into what she wants to achieve in the future. She made us feel involved in her work, not just as spectators, and we know that her talent and enthusiasm are going to push her to do some inspirational things in the textile industry.’ Upon receiving news of her achievement, Vicky wrote, ‘Winning has given me more confidence to step out of my comfort zone and seek more traditional craft opportunities. I will be continuing my traditional craft journey, and I am excited to start my textiles course at Royal College of Art ... Thank you [Clothworkers’] for continuously supporting the next generation of craftsmen for good cause.’ You can read more about Vicky’s work on the New Designers’ website at www.NewDesigners.com.
CHAMPIONING TRUSTEESHIP THROUGH PARTNERSHIP New Philanthropy Capital’s Giulia Todres wrote the following case study on our partnership ...
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or the past 11 years, The Clothworkers’ Company has partnered with New Philanthropy Capital – among others – to champion trusteeship. With NPC, it has aimed to explore key issues affecting charity governance in the UK. Being a good trustee is not just about managing finances and risk, but grasping opportunities and trying to maximise the social impact of your charity. The free seminars produced by NPC and The Clothworkers’ Company take place from autumn to spring each year, and they share best practice for trustees and new ideas or policies that trustees should be aware of in order to make informed decisions for their staff and beneficiaries. Plus, attendees get to ask questions of NPC’s expert speakers and discuss the challenges they are facing with their peers. Previous speakers at these events have included Gail Scott-Spicer, Trustee, Premier League Charitable Fund; Arvinda Gohil, Chair, the Peel Institute; and Jonathan Bell, Trustee, National Aids Trust. These seminars have always been topical and designed with the current concerns of trustees in mind. Previously, NPC has hosted sessions on the role for trustees in the debate on diversity and inclusion, and how trustees can help implement place-based approaches. This was particularly true throughout 2020 and 2021, during the pandemic, when NPC held sessions on retaining and empowering volunteers, harnessing digital opportunities, and setting charity reserve policies. Speakers in
2020 and 2021 included Alex Butler, Trustee, SafeLives; Tiger de Souza MBE, Volunteering, Participation & Inclusion Director, the National Trust; and Rohan Hewavisenti, Chief Financial Officer, Amnesty International. What’s more, after each of these events; blogs and YouTube videos are produced to share the learnings more widely. These trusteeship and governance seminars have gone from strength to strength since The Clothworkers’ partnership with NPC began. This was even the case when COVID-19 disrupted the events series and the sessions moved from Clothworkers’ Hall to Zoom. Virtual attendance reached new heights recently, with 157 people signing up for the harnessing digital technology through and beyond COVID-19 event, and the NPC blogs and YouTube videos continue to carry important messages far and wide, beyond just those who were able to join the webinar. What’s more, testimony from participants has been as positive and energising as ever: ‘Well structured—well hosted— good range of speakers—great follow up—good job all round’, ‘I wasn’t able to attend the event and so watched the recording on YouTube. It was very useful to be able to do this so thank you’. Looking to the future, this partnership will continue into 2022 with events on the environmental crisis and how to close down services or programmes already in production. NPC says The Company’s support ensures that this events series continues to champion good governance and build a more resilient non-profit sector across the UK. Find out more about NPC’s trusteeship seminars – online and in person – on its website at: www.ThinkNPC.org.uk. THE CLOTHWORKER | AUTUMN 2021
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47 SQUADRON Supporting the RAF
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he Clothworkers’ Company is proud to have supported 47 Squadron for nearly 10 years, first connecting in 2011. In addition to opportunities to meet and develop relationships with service men and women, The Company is delighted to fund annual community and family welfare activities and special opportunities for the Squadron. For instance, we sponsored the memorial sculpture at the National Memorial Arboretum, commemorating the Squadron’s centenary in 2015. COMMUNITY AWARDS This September, we were delighted to host service men and women, and their guests, from Brize Norton for the inaugural Clothworkers’ 47 Squadron RAF Community Awards. Each member of 47 Squadron in attendance was named on a Roll of Special Recognition for having gone above and beyond in supporting their crew and community. In addition, Immediate Past Master and First Warden Alex Nelson and Wing Commander Richard Fawkes presented four special awards to: • Flight Sergeant Stuart Cox, 47 Squadron Engineers Award for supporting teammates even when there is no obvious recognition or award for doing so; • Flight Lieutenant Edward Bindloss-Gibb, 47 Squadron Operations and Headquarters Award for supporting teammates even when there is no obvious recognition or award for doing so; • Sergeant Bramwell TempestRoe, 47 Squadron Sans Peur Award for delivering an outstanding contribution to the Squadron
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despite facing challenging personal circumstances;
Flight Lieutenant Thomas Mallin wrote the following report on the day:
• Corporal Ferdinand Ball, 47 Squadron Officer Commanding’s Award recognising the person who has made the greatest contribution in the context of community, family, wider society or morale.
‘Teams decided and coin tossed, it was time to hit the crease. The field was organised, bowlers chosen and the ball wrestled from 47’s Australian exchange officer, who was caught hiding a pack of sandpaper in his trouser pocket. Batters would face four overs each, losing five runs each time they got out. Bowlers would take an over each, allowing all players to have a go. Mixed ability would be one way to describe the first innings’ bowling, with styles ranging from slog-able wides to full-on pitches from our American friends. Only nearly hitting the bouncy castle twice, the umpire decided to restrict bowling to one end only, so as not to draw any of the players’ children into becoming unwitting fielders. On the other hand, batting averages were very notable, with runs mounting up quickly. The representatives from The Clothworkers’ on both teams were particularly on form, with bowlers and fielders alike being worked hard by their bats. Halfway through the second innings, 47 Squadron offered something
Our guests enjoyed a brief introduction to our Hall and History by Archivist Hannah Dunmow, sat down to a lunch in our Reception Room before the presentation of the awards, and then enjoyed a few hours in London before heading home. CRICKET In August, Tim West (Court Assistant), Giles Malyon (Livery Member), Robert Jones (Livery Member) and guests were invited to join 47 Squadron in Brize Norton Village for a team cricket match. They were able to take advantage of the removal of restrictions on social gatherings so that the Hercules crew could enjoy a day of sport alongside their sister unit, the 67th Special Operations Squadron, USAF, from RAF Mildenhall.
extra back, with one of its RAF Cricket Team players finding a child-minder for his two-year-old so he could bowl an over or two. Alas, no stumps went flying and the rest of the players breathed a sigh of relief as he left the field to deal with a boundary-side tantrum. ‘As the second innings came to a close, those in bat for the second team kept their nerves to top-off a decent win, although there were some nail-biting moments thanks to a Clothworker all-rounder bowling. All involved had a superb afternoon, blessed with good weather and accompanied with excellent live music, copious amounts of food and outstanding company. Even the minor inject of imminent tasking to Afghanistan didn’t detract from making this inaugural Cricket Festival a roaring success. On behalf of 47 Squadron, we thank you once again for all your support – it was our absolute pleasure to host you and your families for such a fun day; we hope you will join us again next summer. In the meantime, we look forward to seeing more of you at events over the coming year ... let us know if you’re in the area for some pre-season nets!’
Facing page: 47 Squadron visited Clothworkers’ Hall for the Community Awards on 21 September. This page: Clothworkers impressed their RAF teammates by arriving dressed to win in their cricket whites (left). Court Assistant Tim West can be seen taking on the role of wicket keeper (right). THE CLOTHWORKER | AUTUMN 2021
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HONOUR AND PRAISE FOR THE FANY (PRVC)
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his September, the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry (PRVC) was awarded the Privileged Status of the City of London, an honour given to only 13 other distinguished military units. After a church service at St Lawrence Jewry, the Corps took part in a parade where commemorative coins were awarded by HRH The Princess Royal, Corps Commandant-in-Chief to the FANY. The parade started and concluded with a Royal Salute from the Band of the Irish Guards. During a reception at Guildhall, The Rt Hon The Lord Mayor formally presented a plaque to the Commanding Officer,
Commandant Philippa Lorimer MBE. The FANY was recognised for working the past 45 years to support the City of London in the immediate aftermath of incidents and civil emergencies, from the 1975 Moorgate tube crash to the 2017 and 2019 London Bridge terrorist attacks. The honour is public recognition of the extraordinary role that the Corps plays in our community, and it allows the FANY to march through the City with ‘drums beating and bayonets fixed’.
calves intensively. Geoffrey remained living and farming at Shalstone Manor, where he still lives. When Anthony’s calf-rearing enterprise was running happily, he found that he had the middle of the day to himself, so went to the local Labour Exchange to see if there was a job that would fill the 10-4 gap, five days a week. He was rewarded with a £6 per week job resurrecting the local Conservative Party Associations. This he did very successfully, and after 18 months was asked to canvas Bristol South East (where Tony Benn was the sitting member). After another success, he was asked to train further at the Conservative Party Agents College in Yorkshire. And so he became a Conservative Party agent.
Association, and lived just opposite the party offices. He once said that he enjoyed the fund raising, including Donkey Derbys, ‘as the profits would pay his wages.’
A few years on, in 1984, he was on duty at the Tory Conference in Brighton when the bomb went off with its terrible destruction. Fortunately, he was staying at another hotel. The event did not deter Anthony; he became the Agent for Esher and Chairman of the Tory Agents
Our sympathies go out to Doreen and his five Clothworker children: Georgina, Fiona, Amy, James and William – and to the rest of his family.
Read more about our relationship with the FANY and the other military affiliates we support at www.Clothworkers.co.uk.
TRIBUTES ANTHONY PUREFOY MBE, ASSISTANT EMERITUS Words of Appreciation by Past Master Dr Carolyn Boulter DL [Anthony passed away this past February.]
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nthony (Master Excused Service, 1998) was born in 1930 and belonged to a Clothworker family going back to 1843. His older brother, Geoffrey, very kindly talked to me about Anthony’s background. I know Geoffrey well as an influential Clothworker Master who, with Jeremy Latham, conspired to get women such as myself first onto the Livery in 1994. Anthony had joined the Livery in 1952. Then Geoffrey and Anthony decided to move to Shalstone and its Manor in 1955, to try together to reinstate the property that had been in the family since 1410. They managed to return 390 acres from tenancy. But sadly, they decided that it was not viable for two families, so Anthony moved away to Somerset to rear
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Tony had a good sense of humour. Just before he retired, he visited the Westminster shop. A General Election had just been called. Parliament had been prorogued, so there were no MPs, and when Anthony asked for three tins of House of Commons humbugs, he got a swift reply from the man in the shop who – with a cheeky smile – said, ‘Sorry, at the moment we’re right out of humbugs’. On his retirement he was appointed MBE for his services to the Conservative Party.
For the names of other Clothworkers’ we’ve lost this past year, turn to page 24.
CHELSEA PENSIONERS DEBUT NEW SCARLETS
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fter a successful Scarlet Coat Appeal in 2019, the iconic 18thcentury coats of the Chelsea Pensioners (Royal Hospital Chelsea) received an update, transforming the Scarlet into a ‘summer’ coat, allowing veterans to remain comfortable in warm weather as they do community work, attend parades or ceremonies, visit prisons and run soup kitchens. Clothworkers’ funded a bolt of cloth for 300 light-weight cloth, and was delighted to see that the new coats had finally made their debut this summer – appearing for the first time at a parade on 5 August.
Since then, they’ve been spotted at the Longines Global Champions Tour (show jumping) and the Chelsea Flower Show. Pictured here, Clerk to The Company Jocelyn Stuart-Grumbar poses for a photo with pensioners Marjorie Cole and Roy Palmer. Allan McLaren, Head of Fundraising, reports that feedback on the coats has been overwhelmingly positive, with pensioners praising the lightweight and proudly discussing the upgrade to their
Scarlets with those they meet. Production of the coats was entrusted to Hainsworth Mill – which was responsible for the scarlet uniforms worn by the British at the Battle of Waterloo.
GET INVOLVED WITH INTER-LIVERY SPORTS The Clothworkers’ golf team faced the Scots Guards at The Berkshire this past summer. The regiment was in the process of completing its transfer to Catterick from Aldershot, and those who participated in the golf event were excited to escape (however briefly) packing responsibilities. Clothworkers’ golf captain Adam Walker reported that the day was ‘serious fun’ and included both a team competition as well as an individual competition – with Lt-Col Guy Anderson earning top honours. This September, Clothworkers Will
Golf Team: Adam Walker (adwchiefy@gmail.com) Sailing Team: Andrew Yonge (andrew.yonge@zen.co.uk) Shooting Team: Charlie Houston (charles@goingsolar.org.uk)
Harris, Chris Remers and Owen Turgoose represented Clothworkers’ at the annual Inter-Livery Rifle Shoot, held at the RAF Target Rifle Club, Bisley. Each Clothworker earned individual honours (Will took second place overall) and as a team, they carried the day! The Great Twelve Sailing Challenge is back for 27-29 May 2022, and the team is always looking for experienced new talent for races in mermaid day boats, and hopefully a yacht or two. Livery and Freedom members are encouraged to get in touch with Captain Andrew Yonge to learn more (details below).
To be contacted directly about sports, update your online profile in the Members’ Area of our website to include ‘golf’, ‘sailing’, or ‘shooting’ as a ‘sport you play’. To find out more about inter-livery activities, and how you can become more involved in events in the City of London, check out the new Livery Committee website (and calendar) at www.LiveryCommittee.org.
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NEWS & NOTICES CLOTHWORKERS’ EVENTS
Assistants Emeriti and Livery members.
Young Freedom Reception (28 October) We welcome younger members of the Freedom, providing an opportunity for them to get to know other Clothworkers. This year, the event will include a sample workshop in lantern-making and paper-folding from Clothworkers’ grant recipient The Creative Dimension Trust. E-invitations have been sent.
Virtual All-Members’ Workshop (14 December) The Crafty Hen will guide us through a festive workshop for Christmas crackers. E-invitations will be sent soon.
Virtual All-Members’ Lecture (24 November) Professor Stephen Westland of the University of Leeds will present, ‘What is Colour and Why Does it Matter?’ Q&A to follow, with the option of participating in Zoom breakout rooms. E-invitations will be sent soon. Court and Livery Dinner (1 December) The speaker for this dinner is the Most Reverend Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury. E-invitations will be sent to Court,
St Thomas’ Eve Freedom Luncheon (20 December) St Thomas’ Eve is a festive occasion for members before the holiday period. Historically, it was once the day that The Company distributed charity to Clothworkers in need. The Beadle would prepare a list of members, who would be invited to receive gifts of money and, from 1858, refreshments of cold meat, bread and beer. Since 1967, members of the Freedom have been invited to a luncheon at Clothworkers’ Hall. In recent years, we have celebrated our philanthropic legacy with an annual St Thomas’ Eve charity appeal for an organisation chosen by the Master. We’re looking forward to holding this again, and invitations will be sent to Freedom members soon.
IN MEMORIAM We regret to announce the following deaths: Pauline H L Moore Freedom (September 2020) Alan Leslie Paine Livery (November 2020) Peter Harley Jenkins Freedom (November 2020) Brian Timothy Malyon Freedom (December 2020) John Edward Bury DL Livery (March 2021) Brian Turnbull Freedom (April 2021) Richard George Howard Freedom (May 2021) Prof Sarah Jean Broadie Freedom (August 2021)
Master Philip Portal joined the Master Woolman and The Rt Hon The Lord Mayor for the annual Sheep Drive, which was led by Yorkshire Shepherdess Amanda Owen (left). This historic annual event now raises funds for The Woolmen’s Company Charitable Trust and The Lord Mayor’s Appeal. The Master’s Lady joined him for the event – with the sheep that got away (right). For 2021, the event also included a Livery Fair, and The Clothworkers’ Company sponsored exhibition and sales stalls for Cockpit Arts weaving studio alumnae, Vicky Cowin and Millie Thomas.
Visit the Members’ Area at www.clothworkers.co.uk or connect with us at: @ClothworkersCo @ClothworkersCo @Clothworkers_Co 24
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