 Dial-a-Cab’s Jim Rainbird (T25) was installed as the new Master of the Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriage Drivers at the Tallow Chandlers in Dowgate Hill on 9th September. Following the Installation Court, the new Master and his Wardens welcomed guests to a champagne reception in the courtyard before dinner was served in the Grand Hall. Jim has been a driver with Dial-a-Cab for 16 of his 20 years in the trade. In addition to Jim becoming Master for the forthcoming year, former DaC driver Brenda Bartlett became Renter Warden for the Company while DaC Chairman Brian Rice became Lower Warden. One of the new Master’s first official roles each year is to lead the Magical Taxi Tour as it leaves Canary Wharf. Jim is no exception - although those who have driven on the trip before will be more used to seeing him dressed in his white protective suit and Tigger hat as he refuels the taxis in France. The Master then took wine with |
DaC’s Jim is new WCHCD Master! |
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the new Freemen and Liveryman
and following dinner, the Loving Cup ceremony took place.
Jim then gave his first speech as Master. He told guests: "On Sunday April 1st 1990, I jumped on my trusty moped and started my first ‘run’ on the Knowledge of London. Manor House Station to Gibson Square. Up until that day, the only Manor House I knew was a fruitcake so I thought that with the combination of April Fool’s day and a fruitcake, my latest venture was doomed. Some will say that it was a fitting date, as a brief glance at my employment history prior to gaining my badge, will confirm my proverbial nickname ‘Jack of all trades but Master of none’. Well I’ve finally cracked it! This is a very proud day for me and I’m delighted to be able to share it with so many colleagues, friends and family members. It was in that same year – 1990 – that The Fellowship of Hackney Carriage Drivers was revived. That was 336 years after its first incarnation under Oliver Cromwell as the Fellowship of Master Hackney Coachmen. Twenty years on and we are now a respected Worshipful Company that continues to grow in size and regard within The City of London. Our educational and military affiliations also continue to flourish. |
"It was
encouraging to see the recent meeting take place with
representatives from every recognised group in the
trade, signing a submission relating to the Mayor of London’s
air quality strategy and an age limit on taxis. What was even
more encouraging was that among those present at that
meeting were two Wardens, a Court Assistant and a Freeman of
this company. It shows that we, as a Company, are well
represented in all parts of the trade. A united trade is something we should all strive for. The only way to compete with our rivals in the current economic climate is to improve our service – I realise I am preaching to the converted here but I think the long term future of this trade depends on two words –service and unity." Guest speaker, Mr J Shilling, Master of the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers, followed Jim’s speech with an entertaining one of his own. At the end of the evening and before inviting the guests to join him in a Stirrup Cup, the new Master made a presentation to the Beadle, John Sheen, who is retiring after giving over ten years service to the Company. Our heartiest congratulations to Jim, who in whatever position with the WCHCD, has always worked hard to promote the organisation and the good work that they do. |
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