Last week, an incredible 757 Lewisham primary school students took on the Alex Yee Triathlon course at St Dunstan’s College – and every single one crossed the finish line! Supported by the Merchant Taylors' Foundation, this unforgettable day gave Key Stage 2 children (ages 7–11) the opportunity to swim, cycle, and run their way through a specially designed course, just like local hero Alex Yee had done, which inspired his triathlon career. From the cheers at the finish line to the smiles in the goodie bags (packed with flyers from amazing local clubs and charities), the event was all about inspiring the next generation to find their passion in sport and beyond. One of our 15 brilliant Merchant Taylors' volunteers said: "All I heard was laughter and the happy chatter of amazement... Alex was there, signing T-shirts and cheering everyone on." Huge thanks to Alex, his family, the volunteers from Merchant Taylors' Company and 40 Commando, and everyone who made this day so special. #AlexYeeTriathlon #InspirationInAction #LewishamYouth #MerchantTaylorsFoundation #TriathlonTaster #FutureChampions #SportForAll

Last week, we had the honour of hosting the Billesden Award Dinner, a time-honoured tradition faithfully observed since 1484, celebrating peace and fellowship between the Merchant Taylors’ Company and @theskinnerscompany. In the first year of King Richard III, weary of ongoing disputes, the Masters, Wardens, and fellowship of both Companies agreed to submit their quarrel to arbitration by the Lord Mayor of London, Sir Robert Billesden. His wise decree established a lasting tradition: Each Company would host the other for dinner once a year — the Skinners on the Vigil of Corpus Christi, and the Merchant Taylors on the Feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist. As for precedence, it was decided that the Companies would alternate seniority each year - a gesture of mutual respect that endures to this day. A beautiful reminder that even the most enduring rivalries can be reconciled over a shared table. #Tradition #AttentionToDetail #FineDining #BillesdenDinner #HistoricCelebration

Despite the soaring temperatures, a group of Merchant Taylors took a fascinating journey into the hidden heights of St Paul’s Cathedral — the Triforium! From breathtaking views to enlightening history, we explored the Company’s legacy in this iconic London landmark, including our 19th-century fundraising for the dome’s stunning mosaics and the commissioning of a new peal of bells in 2018. Our expert guides revealed some of the Cathedral’s best-kept secrets — the beautifully restored Library, remnants of Old St Paul’s, and Wren’s awe-inspiring Great Model that helped win over King Charles II. Huge thanks to our curator Ellie for organising such a memorable experience, the brilliant team at St Paul’s, and all our enthusiastic members who joined us! #StPaulsCathedral #CityOfLondon #HistoryUncovered #Wren #TriforiumTour