The Fruiterers year begins on 25th January, the feast of the conversion of St Paul, with the installation of the new Master. There are a number of key annual events throughout the year which fall on similar dates, as well as many different visits and events as chosen by the Master during his term of office.
The company
The Fruiterers Year
We maintain an active programme throughout the year
The following programme highlights a number of events that feature during the year to ensure our members have opportunities to meet, collaborate and entertain.
Programme
The Company’s year begins on St Paul’s Day (25th January)
Which is the Feast-Day of the Conversion of St. Paul, the Patron Saint of the Company. On this day the new Master and Wardens take office. A Livery Service is held at St. Mary Abchurch in the City.
01
Annual Livery Banquet
The Company’s Annual Livery Banquet takes place shortly after St. Paul’s Day, to which the new Master invites the Lord Mayor and other dignitaries.
02
City Food Lecture
In conjunction with the other food-related Livery Companies the Company organises the City Food Lecture to promote informed debate of topical issues in the food and drink distribution industries.
03
United Guilds’ Service
The Master, Wardens and Members of the Court join their counterparts from other Livery Companies at St. Paul’s Cathedral for the annual United Guilds’ Service.
04
Court Dinners & Court Meetings
Opportunities for Fruiterers to get together and entertain guests are provided at three more Court Dinners, which follow the year’s Court meetings, in May after the Audit Court, at which the annual accounts are received, in July after the Summer Court, and in November at the Master and Wardens Dinner.
05
Informal lunches & social events
In addition, a number of informal lunches are held and the Master arranges one or two mixed social and educational events, usually outside London and often abroad.
There is also an active Golf Society that enjoys an annual meeting in May and participation in inter-Livery golf matches.
06
Fruit-tree planting
A fruit-tree planting programme makes regular appearances in prominent and important gardens and locations. These occasions also provide opportunities for Liverymen to meet representatives at the very top of the horticultural profession.
07
Fruit presentation
Each October, the Company makes a formal Presentation of fruit to the Lord Mayor at the Mansion House. On occasions, the Company also participates in the Lord Mayor’s Show.