LONDON: The Worshipful Company of Builders' Merchants (WCoBM) hosted its first City & Awards Luncheon at the Tallow Chandlers' Hall in the capital.
The Awards luncheon was a networking opportunity for Liverymen and Freemen of the Company and their guests. The guest of honour was ex-Lord Mayor of London Nick Anstee.
Other guests of the Master included the president of the Institute of Builders' Merchants, Andrew Pine. The WCoBM supports training and education in the merchant industry through its close links with the IoBM and the Builders' Merchants Federation, and donates to the City & Guilds of London Art School. It also actively supports the Third Battalion of the Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment, contributing to its Welfare Fund.
Award winners included Hannah Green, who excelled in the BMF Open Learning examinations. Ms Green was awarded a special goblet in recognition of her efforts. Private Harriss from the Third Battalion of the Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment received the Top Soldier 2011-12 award.
The WCBM is also supporting a new trainee, Elliott Channer, who has started a three-year course on stone carving at the City & Guilds of London Art School.
WCBM Master Graham Ballinger commented: "It is the first time the Company has hosted its annual awards in this format and it worked really well. Liverymen, Freemen and guests, which included merchants and suppliers, were able to enjoy the prize giving and an afternoon of networking in a superb location. We hope to be able to organise similar events every year."
