A Day to Remember: Welcoming Our New Freemen

Yesterday, the Worshipful Company of Fletchers had the great pleasure of witnessing several members gain their Freedom of the City of London — a proud and moving milestone on the journey towards becoming a Liveryman.

The ceremony was full of meaning, tradition, and joy, made all the more special by the presence of fellow Fletchers who came to support and welcome our newest Freemen who are: 

The United Guilds Service took place on 28th March 2025 at St Paul's Cathedral. This spectacular event, attended by the Lord Mayor, is one of the few occasions when members of all livery companies and guilds gather together. Although it is the largest such service of the year, it only dates back to 1943, when it was introduced as a coordinated response to the challenges faced by the City of London following the Blitz, while also serving as a reminder of the religious origins of the Guilds. The service was followed by an enjoyable lunch at Farmers and Fletchers' Hall.

There are 4 draws for the Champagne Lottery planned for 2025. Tickets are £25 per ticket and each ticket will be placed in all draws within the year. Members can buy a maximum of 5. Please remember this is members only draw.  Odds are much better than the National Lottery!!. The clerk will alert the Company to the winner the following day.

The City of London thrives on relationships. From the medieval guilds to today’s modern livery companies, our traditions endure not because of buildings or ceremonies alone, but because of the people who invest their time, energy, and goodwill in sustaining them.

In the Livery, relationships bind us together in shared purpose—supporting charitable causes, mentoring the next generation, and upholding professional excellence. In the Wards, these connections ensure that businesses, residents, and civic institutions work in partnership to shape a City that remains globally relevant while staying true to its heritage. And across the City, our relationships with institutions, government, and wider society enable us to champion good governance, responsible commerce, and enduring philanthropy.

None of this happens by accident. Strong relationships require engagement, trust, and continuity. Whether welcoming new members, strengthening ties between livery companies, or deepening our impact across the Square Mile and beyond, the value of personal connection cannot be overstated.

As we look to the future, investing in relationships—across livery, ward, and City—isn’t just important, it’s essential.

Every Shrove Tuesday, dozens of Livery members split into teams and race around Guildhall Yard for the Inter-Livery Pancake Race. Hosted by the Worshipful Company of Poulters, this is one of the most visually spectacular events of the year in the City. Teams wearing either fancy dress or full regalia, race around the Guildhall Yard tossing their pancakes and the victors receive, fittingly, frying pans as well as a trophy. This is also an example of City Livery companies coming together to raise money for charity. Organised by the Poulters, the Gunmakers provide (and fire) the starting gun, the Clockmakers time the races and the Fruiterers provide the lemons to go with your pancakes, which are on sale from stands in Guildhall Yard during the racing. The competition has been running annually for over 15 years and proceeds go to charitable causes

 A group of 19 Fletchers ventured out on a bright February Day on undertake an Ale tour. The pubs of the City of London are more than just places to enjoy a pint — they are steeped in history and tradition, with stories that have been passed down through generations. Recently, members of The Worshipful Company of Fletchers had the pleasure of a day out, learning about the pubs and the fascinating history of the Ale Conor, the official responsible for overseeing the quality of ale in the City of London. From the ancient taverns to modern establishments, each pub tells a tale of the city's rich heritage and its close ties with the ale trade. We enjoyed not only the history but a few beers along the way, celebrating both the past and present of London’s brewing culture.

The January Court and Lunch was held on the 15th January. We had a number of freemen who were admitted to the company and a number of newly clothed Liverymen. We were joined by the Master Inn holder Tom Richardson, Craft Warden Blacksmiths Colonel Jane Davis, Master Founder Alan Hughes and Mr Josh Masey a blacksmith.

Josh who is a black smith presented the company with a working arrow retriever that he had made with a few jokes made on when the company could next use it.

A number of Fletchers attended the Christmas party at the Hall which, was great fun and thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended. With the great Man himself putting in a appearance.

A number of Fletchers attended the Christmas Carols at the Tower of London last night. The Choir was in fine voice. There was an excellent curry and a few wines in the Fusiliers mess afterwards.