At Common Hall on Friday 3rd July 2026, the Beadle, Matthew Stokes was presented with the Company's first Staff of Office since its inception in 1988.

 

​The Staff, a magnificent Victorian firefighters helmet in pewter on an ash pole was commissioned by the Father of the Company, Gerry Clarkson, former Commissioner of the London Fire Brigade and the Company's first Beadle, John Norris.

 

The presentation took on a more poignant significance as both Gerry and John had both recently passed away, John a well respected and proud member of the City of London Beadles' Guild and the Worshipful Company of Firefighters, only a couple of weeks before the presentation.

 

John's partner and daughters were guests of honour at Common Hall to assist with the presentation of the staff on behalf of John and Gerry.

 

The Staff was then blessed by the Company's Reverend at the Service of Rededication following Common Hall.

 

A memorial service for Gerry Clarkson will be held at St Paul's Cathedral on the 1st October 2026, where at the request of Gerry's family, the Staff will be blessed again.