News

It was a little warm last week, but thankfully cool at the Hall for the annual Billesden Dinner, where the Company hosted Skinners, guests from Mansion House and livery companies for an evening celebrating (and poking fun) at one of the country’s longest-running laws. The 1484 law by the City of London Lord Mayor Billesden set the annual change of @theskinnerscompany and Merchant Taylors’ Company to positions 6 and 7 in the order of precedence. As remarked on by the Master, what began as a punishment is now a strong bond of friendship (except in sports!)

Did you know? This large, convex mirror (which hangs in the Parlour), was restored in 2019 by specialist restorer Jane Hall, the Company’s first female Master. Dating from 1880, Jane and her team discovered dirt, damage and decades of haphazard repairs to the mirror alongside former renovations where chemicals were damaging the frame. Through care and using modern and ancient techniques like water gilding, the mirror’s lustre returned, better than ever. Read more from Jane on the portal now

With the end of this Mastership year in sight, Livery members can now book for the annual dinner on 7 July, which celebrates a new group taking the livery. One of our oldest and most popular events, its roots date back to medieval London when the Company was still a collection of tailors. Book now on the membership portal to reserve your spot!