The Worshipful Company of Actuaries was privileged to dine at Mansion House on 2 May.
Around 220 liverymen and guests enjoyed a superb dinner in the magnificent setting of the Egyptian Hall, courtesy of the Lord Mayor.
We were greeted with a guard of honour by the Edmonton Sea Cadets. Companion Jo Emms presented the Robert Thomas Memorial Award to Ordinary Cadet Tatiana Topczewska, and a cheque to the Sea Cadets' Commanding Officer. Grace was said by the Master's son, Rev Dr Geoff Dumbreck. Diners were entertained with music from the Royal Marines Concert Band.
The Master presented the Lord Mayor with cheques for the Lord Mayor's Appeal and Mansion House Scholarship Fund before proposing the Civic Toast. In his reply, the Lord Mayor spoke about trust -the theme for his year of office. He then presented gifts to the clerk and Master.
Liveryman Michael Pomery welcomed our guests, including officers of 601 (County of London) RAF Squadron, with which the Company is now affiliated. He then welcomed our principal guest, the economist Baroness Wolf of Dulwich, and invited members of the Company to toast our guests. Baroness Wolf gave a most interesting speech, which included her personal views on the threats and opportunities posed by AI.
The Master presented the Baroness with a cheque for her chosen charity, Dogs for Help, which provides funding to supply dogs that aid the disabled, and she proposed a toast to the Company and Master. The Master spoke some final words and brought a most enjoyable evening to an end.