News

Members of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers joined fellow Livery Companies at the annual Sheep Drive and Livery Fair across Southwark Bridge on Sunday, 29 September 2025. This much-loved tradition, organised by the Worshipful Company of Woolmen, celebrates the ancient right of freemen to drive sheep over the Thames toll-free. The Plumbers’ Company enjoyed taking part in the colourful pageantry, alongside other trades, in a lively day that also featured heritage stalls and demonstrations. The event was both a celebration of the City’s history and a reminder of the enduring role of London’s livery companies in civic life.

A commemorative plaque has been unveiled at Vintners’ Place, celebrating the site of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers’ earliest known Hall, which stood there from the 1530s to the 1630s. The ceremony, led by the Master, Charles Brooks, and officially unveiled by the Lord Mayor, was attended by Liverymen, guests, and members of the Vintners’ Company, followed by a reception at St Magnus the Martyr Church.

On Monday 15 September 2025, 49 Liverymen and guests, including several prospective members of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers, gathered at Ironmongers’ Hall for a convivial lunch, meticulously organised by Past Steward Philippa Stary. The occasion began with a lively reception in the drawing room alongside the Ironmongers’ Monday Lunch Club, before moving into the banqueting hall for a superb three-course meal. Built in Tudor Revival style 100 years ago, Ironmongers’ Hall provided a magnificent setting. Master Charles Brooks closed proceedings with a short speech of thanks, recognition of guests, and encouragement for the year ahead under Master Elect Sandra Raine.

The Master’s final social event of his year was held at the Royal Kennel Club in Mayfair on 10 September 2025. Members enjoyed a fascinating tour of the Exhibits Room, Gallery and Library, where treasures such as the original Stud Book of 1874 and the famous Crufts Cup were on display. The group also learned surprising facts about dog ownership, including Queen Victoria’s 75 dogs. With expert guides, fine artwork, and a remarkable archive, the visit was both educational and entertaining. An excellent lunch and warm hospitality rounded off a memorable day in one of London’s most historic clubs

HMS Sultan welcomed representatives from the Worshipful Company of Plumbers today for a special ceremony marking the unveiling of a commemorative planter, symbolising the enduring collaboration between the two organisations.

Our Plumbing Museum Workshop Trust generously hosted a visit from our affiliated Air Cadet Sqn, No 1147 Sqn from Barking.

On 20 August 2025, Kevin Wellman, Court Assistant of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers and CEO of the CIPHE, together with Jason Clark, President of the CIPHE and Court Assistant Elect of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers, formally signed a new strategic collaboration agreement between the CIPHE and City & Guilds. This important partnership is designed to transform the future of plumbing and heating education.

As the Company customises to our new offices at Painters’ Hall, some research into past connections has revealed fascinating historical ties between the Worshipful Company of Plumbers and the Worshipful Company of Painter-Stainers.

The Master, Charles Brooks, was honoured to attend the biennial Royal Navy Parade at TS Goodwin, home of the Richmond Sea Cadets, one of the Worshipful Company’s valued cadet affiliates. The Company’s strong relationship with its three cadet units was also on display at the recent Summer Festival, where the Cadet of the Year was awarded.

The Master and Mistress were delighted to host 35 Members of the Livery and their partners to a 3 day / 2 night break between 17 and 19 June 2025, the object for which was to show case that part of north Hampshire where they live as well as the Master’s great love of target shooting.

The annual Inter-Livery Golf Competition run by the Worshipful Company of Marketors was held on 7 July 2025 in the Marketors 50th anniversary year and the Plumbers Golf Society were there to join in the fun. All the proceeds go to the Lord Mayor’s Appeal.

A thoughtful act of generosity by Past Masters Charles Yuill and Chris Sneath has helped fund the installation of a new drinking water pump in a rural community in Pakistan, supporting global access to safe water — a cause the Company proudly endorses.

The WCoP once again made a strong impression at the Installer Show 2025, with a successful stand, industry awards, and the presentation of bursaries. Highlights included Jason Clark’s installation as CIPHE President, and a strong turnout of volunteers and Court members across the three-day event.

The Worshipful Company of Plumbers has joined a prestigious group of companies and organisations which recognise the outstanding contribution our Armed Forces make to the country and our community.

This year’s Summer Festival was held at the historic Barber Surgeons’ Hall, bringing together 126 members and guests for a memorable evening of tradition, celebration, and ceremony. The event featured the signing of the Armed Forces Covenant, the presentation of cadet awards, and outstanding musical entertainment.

Jason Clark, a respected Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers, was officially installed as President of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) on 25 June 2025, following confirmation at the CIPHE Annual General Meeting held that day .

On Thursday, 19th June, under the scorching heat of the summer sun, 39 golfers representing nine different Livery Companies set out at the picturesque The Drift Golf Club in Surrey to compete for the Newson-Smith Cup, hosted by the Worshipful Company of Plumbers.

The Plumbers’ Golf Society (PGS) fielded two teams at the prestigious Horners’ Trophy, one of the highlights of the annual Inter-Livery golf calendar, held on 11 May at the magnificent Ashridge Golf Club, Hertfordshire.

Prem GOYAL OBE, Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers, has been awarded a CBE for Public Service in His Majesty The King’s Birthday Honours 2025. The Company sends Prem our congratulations on this marvellous recognition.

On Thursday, 29 May 2025, the Worshipful Company of Plumbers made its annual visit to Amberley and the Plumbers Museum & Workshop Trust, where history came alive amidst the museum’s unique charm and engaging exhibits.

A warm and moving celebration of the life of Past Master Geoffrey Marsh MBE took place on Thursday 8 May at St Magnus the Martyr, attended by members of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers, family and friends.

We are delighted to reveal the 2025 Bursary Competition winners from the Worshipful Company of Plumbers, proudly sponsored by Monument Tools.

Following over 160 applications, six outstanding plumbing apprentices have been selected in recognition of their potential and dedication to the trade. Their applications were strongly supported by their colleges and employers, and each will now receive a professional tool kit worth £1,000, generously provided by Monument Tools and the Plumbers’ Charity.

Amidst a continuing shortage of qualified plumbers and the pressing need to encourage more young people — especially women — into the profession, the Worshipful Company of Plumbers is proud to have sponsored the HIP Female Skills Competition 2025.