130 Lightmongers and guests, from across the lighting, electrical and construction industries, joined Master Tony Ginman at the historic Apothecaries’ Hall on 19th March for the Company’s 2025 Livery Dinner.  A wonderful networking and social event during which our annual Military Merit Awards were presented.

Guests enjoying the unique dining experience of Apothercaries Hall

We were privileged to be joined by cadets from our from our affiliated Royal Air Force Cadets, 56 (Woolwich) Squadron led by OC Mark Bird, who provided the guard of honour for guests on arrival and during the evening gave a stunning Drum Corps performance, in the highly professional manner for which they are now known in the City.

Air Cadets Drum Corps from 56 (Woolwich) Squadron

The Master, Tony Ginman, was delighted to announce this year’s three Lightmongers’ Military Merit Awards, which were made to:

  • Chief Petty Officer, Jamie Lamb from our affiliated Royal Navy ship HMS Queen Elizabeth. The supporting citation was presented by Lt Cdr Ben Heath, RN and the Award was generously sponsored by Past Master Jamie Berry.

L-R: Lt Cdr Ben Heath, Past Master Jamie Berry, CPO Jamie Lamb and the Master, Tony Ginman

  • Staff Sergeant Justin Baker from our affiliated Army unit, 579 Field Squadron (Explosive Ordnance Disposal & Search), The supporting citation was presented by Major Duncan Wood RE, OC 479 Sqn RE and the Award was generously sponsored by Court Assistant Bob Harris.

L-R: Major Duncan Wood, Court Assistant Bob Harris, Staff Sergeant Just Baker and the Master

  • Corporal Mark Collins from our affiliated RAF unit, 606 (Chiltern) Squadron RAF Benson. The supporting citation was presented by  Sqn Ldr John Burgess, OC 606 (Chiltern) Sqn and the Award was generously sponsored by Deputy Master Peter McVeigh.

L-R: The Master, Corporal Mark Collins, Deputy Master Peter McVeigh and Sqn Ldr John Burgess.

We were honoured that Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier, GCB, CBE could join us to make the Response on behalf of the Guests in which he highlighted the long-standing links between the City and the Military, and the importance, especially in today’s uncertain geopolitical climate, of maintaining close ties. Earlier in the evening he and the Master had signed the Military Covenant, which reflects those close ties. He commended the Award winners on their achievements and, on their behalf, thanked the Company and the Sponsors for the recognition that the awards represent, which is much appreciated.

Sir Stephen Hillier giving his speech

Air Marshall Sir Stephen Hillier and the Master, Tony Ginman, signing the Military Covenant.

In his after dinner speech the Master welcomed visiting Upper Warden of WC Plumbers, Ms Sandra Raine and Masters, Mr Charlie Laing, Master WC Paviors, Mr Hugh Wolley, Master WC Tallow Chandlers and Mr Robert Wren, Master WC Clockmakers.

The soubriquet of the Livery Dinner is ‘Industry Networking for Lightmongers and their guests’ so the Master highlighted the significance of having six industry Association Presidents from key sectors of the Lighting and Electrical world present, see below, and welcomed them and all guests of members to the dinner:

Mr Stuart Smith, President ECA
Mr Perry Hazell, President ILP
Mr David Barnwell, President LIA
Mr Dan Lister, President SLL / CIBSE
Mr David Moore, President EDA
Mr Dervan Alleyne, Vice-President HEA

The Lightmongers can play an important role in bringing all elements of the lighting and electrical industry together under one umbrella of fellowship, education and charity.

The Master closed the evening by highlighting some forthcoming Lightmonger events, particularly our Charity Golf Day on May 1st 2025, and encouraged support from members, and their guests and wished everyone a smooth and safe journey home.

An excellent evening enjoyed by all and with so many old friendships re-kindled and new connections made – exactly how a livery dinner should be!