During the Installation Court meeting held at Stationer's Hall in the City of London on 3rd July, HRH The Earl of Wessex KG GCVO installed Stephen Bernhard, Executive Chairman of Bernhard and Company, as Master of The Worshipful Company of Gardeners, one of the 110 Livery Companies of the City dating back to 1345.


Stephen Bernhard with HRH The Earl of Wessex

During the celebration dinner, as the new Master, he presented HRH The Earl of Wessex, with his Past Master badge after making a speech to the Company where he outlined the achievements of the Royal Master during his year in office.

Stephen has been involved with The Worshipful Company of Gardeners since 1983 and follows in the footsteps of his father, Jeffrey.

Asked about his progression to become Master, Stephen said, "Essentially you are asked if you are willing to serve on The Court and there follows a series of interviews during the selection process, after which one is voted for by the rest of the court members. There then follows a period of between eight and twelve years of progression and then one may be elected to serve as a warden and ultimately as the Master.

"It is a huge honour to be Master of one of the City liveries. It's an amazing privilege and one that I hold very dear."

The commitments of the Master are demanding. As well as ceremonial duties, supporting the Mayoralty and formal connections with the Royal family, Government and City authorities, the Master focuses on the horticultural trade in the widest sense.