Willson, Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) deputy chief executive and director of technical affairs, has been awarded Freedom of the City of London, as a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Glaziers and Painters of Glass. He can now become a Liveryman of the Company.
In front of an audience of invited guests and GGF Staff, Giles accepted the honour at the Guildhall by reading the Declaration of a Freeman, which allows him to carry out his ‘trade’.
The title of Freeman is thought to have begun in 1237 and came with several traditional privileges, such as driving sheep over London Bridge, being drunk and disorderly without fear of arrest, or, if sentenced to death, being hanged with a silken rope. Safe to say, it is extremely unlikely that any of these privileges will be exercised by Giles!
The Worshipful Company of Glaziers and Painters of Glass is dedicated to the preservation of stained and painted glass and the skills necessary to produce this beautiful art form. The history of the Company dates back to 1328 and it was granted a Royal Charter by Charles l in 1638.
The Company’s members range from highly skilled crafts people to those who simply involved in protecting this vital part of Britain’s heritage.
After the ceremony, Giles said: “I am hugely honoured to accept the Freedom of the City of London. It is a reflection of the strong relationship between the GGF and the Worshipful Company of Glaziers.”
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