Jailed and Bailed

On 31^st January I was disappointed to be hauled before the beak in No 3 Court at the Old Bailey on preposterous charges brought in the most opaque fashion by persons unknown. About 30 other Masters and Immediate Past Masters were similarly treated. After a peremptory 'trial' conducted by the Aldermanic Sheriff, Alastair King, we were transported to the dining room of the Fusiliers Regiment in the Tower of London for a meagre lunch and only released upon payment of a substantial fine. The photos show me behind bars alongside fellow 'cons', putting a brave face on it with the judge, and showing off the ball and chain attached to my wrist.

That's one way of looking at it.

In reality this event has been held for at least 20 years, in aid of the British Red Cross, and is called Jailed and Bailed. It happens every September, but was postponed last year because of the Period of Mourning. We were fortunate to be given a new date, although I did feel it inappropriate now to wear the Master's gown and so borrowed (with permission) that of the Junior Warden. You can see that I'm wearing the Tudor Bonnet (without permission - my fondness for this item was indeed one of the 'charges' put to me in court). Guilty as charged on that one count...

The two-course lunch was excellent, and the only alcohol provided was sponsored by Pol Roger champagne, to whom many thanks as a glass or five slipped down nicely after such a torrid morning.

The event raised in excess of £43,000 for the Red Cross.

Philip Law

Immediate Past Master