New Freemen’s Dinner 2026

The magnificent Drapers Hall was the setting for this year’s New Freemen’s Dinner.  A fitting backdrop for such an important occasion that saw 33 members take their oath of allegiance to formally become Freeman of the Company. And this year they did it with gusto needing only two attempts at taking wine with the Master Gus Machado FBCS FRSA.

It was certainly a night to remember, not only with rousing and inspiring speeches by the Master, New Freeman Jake O’Gorman and Alderman Tim Hailes FXC JP (SABTAC), but also the clothing of Honorary Liveryman Mike Norris Group CEO Computacentre for his career long commitment, impact and leadership in the IT Industry.

The evening also marked the tremendous achievements of Stefan Fafinski, who under his chairmanship oversaw the raising of £1.5m from WCIT members for the WCIT Charity, and the passing over of the WCIT Charity Chair to Deputy Master Gary Moore.

On a lighter note diners were treated to Grace sung by the Beadle Alan O’Connor, Senior Warden Paul Finch’s explanation of the history and benefits of the Rose Bowl and Deputy Master Gary Moore on the mechanics of the Loving Cup (probably the clearest expose for some years). 

A further benefit of the setting was the chance to sneak off for a selfie in front of the fabulous portrait of King Charles III commissioned by the Drapers.

So in summary another night of industry, information, inspiration and fellowship but most of all celebration and congratulations to Alberto Bonaventura, Andrei Ruse, Aran Batth, Bradley Day, Cheryl Martin, Christopher Wren, Dauda Barry, Dinesh Chacko, Elliott Brooks, Ethan Chung, Gavin Sallery Graham Strachan, Grant Stevens, Hylton Stewart, Iain Sibley JP, Jake O’Gorman, Jason Morris, John Wynn, Jordan Isaac, Kanishka Misal, Ken Walker, Michelle Charles, Miles Berry, Paul Santry, Peter Ingram, Purnima Sen, Rashik Parmar MBE, Richard Weaver, Ricky Spencer, Ryan Ward, Stuart Goble, Tamzin Kerslake, Tim Carter

Maxine Ricketts