The affairs of the Guild are managed by the Court of Assistants under the direction of the Master of the Guild. The Court consists of the Master, Deputy Master who is usually the previous year’s Master, three Wardens, and no fewer than eight and no more than 24 Freemen of the Guild. Members of the Court are known as Court Assistants.
Election of the Master, Deputy Master and three Wardens – Senior, Middle and Junior – is by the Court.
Any Freeman of the Guild who wishes to seek election to the Court must be sponsored by two Court Assistants. Nominations of those wishing to seek election should be received by the Clerk two weeks prior to the date of the June Election Court meeting. Further information on the election process and responsibilities of Court Assistants can be obtained from the Clerk.
The Court meets regularly and not less than three times a year. Decisions are taken by majority vote of the Court.
The Clerk attends all Court meetings and, though not a member of the Guild, his or her responsibilities are to further the activities of the Guild, including ensuring that the decisions of the Court are implemented.
An Installation Ceremony is held in September or October at which the newly elected Master and Wardens declare their commitment to upholding the Guild’s purpose and ordinances. This event is followed by a formal dinner.
The Court is supported by a number of Committees. Guild Members who are willing to make an active contribution as committee members should make themselves known to the Clerk.
