Some 160 people enjoyed the 17th Worshipful Company of Security Professionals’ spring dance at the Rembrandt Hotel in west London.
They raised over £30,000 for Company good causes such as the Hackney Carriage Drivers’ Disney tour for seriously ill children. Kelly Gavin one of the parents of a child that had been on a trip told the gathering how the boy had held the memory of meeting his favourite Disney characters and taking part in the Disney parade, and how special it was, for his first trip abroad. She got a standing ovation for her first public speech; and not a dry eye in the house.
The Tina Turner tribute act had the audience up and dancing; she even formed her Tina Dancers that were a great hit.
Another charity to benefit was the Company’s Security Benevolent Fund. This was set up to offer help for those that have been employed in the security sector, but need a helping hand, for whatever reason. Some have become carers while holding down a full-time job. Some are needing short term financial help so that they can continue working or access to mobility assistance. The SBF and trustees deal with many personal issues and increasingly, they report, those that are suffering from mental health issues.
Hikvision sponsored the evening. Companies and well-wishers that donated auction items included Baroness Henig, Wilson James, AV Group, Open View, 3 MI Battalion, Clifford Chance, Gratte Brothers, HMS Medway, Reliance Group Holdings, Raj Kapoor, Google, Roger Foord, the RAF Regiment, Risk Panel, Jon Harvey, SSR Personnel, Pertemps Group and Tyco Security Products.
Company Master Phillip Hagon said: “Peter French and his helpers put a huge amount of effort into this event which raises extraordinary amounts of money for worthy causes.”
Picture courtesy of Peter French; singer Irie J serenades Amanda Randall.
Among other Company events, Sir Mark Sedwill KCMG, the UK Government National Security Advisor, gave the annual lecture in Barber-Surgeons’ Hall. The annual Installation Lunch is on Wednesday, June 5 in Drapers’ Hall; the new Master is due to be Michael Barley.
About the Company
With its members drawn from the security industry in its widest sense, it’s the 108th Livery Company of the City of London. Visit https://www.avr-group.co.uk/.
