28 November 2008
Black-tie banquet transforms Smithfield
Over 600 guests are invited to a Banquet at Smithfield today (28
Nov) to mark the 140th anniversary of the original opening of the
Metropolitan Meat and Poultry Market.
The Grand Avenue, a public walkway in Smithfield, will be
transformed to a special banqueting hall within hours of the
Market’s closure for business for the day.
If as you are entering, you look up at the small statues at the
front of the Market, the four emblematic figures represent the
Mayors who were present at the original opening of the market in
1868. Tonight, the Lord Mayor of Dublin, the Lord Lieutenant and
Lord Provost of Edinburgh, the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, led by the
Lord Mayor of London Ian Luder, will all be present at this special
banquet.
Lord Mayor Ian Luder said: “Smithfield Market is a unique gem of
the City with a long trading history of 800 years. This is a
special occasion for us to pause for just a moment in the midst of
the financial turmoil and celebrate the best of Britain - the fact
that this world-renowned Smithfield Market will continue to supply
the best quality meat products throughout the country for many
years to come.
“As a tradition, the butchers will present a Boar’s head to the
Lord Mayor for Christmas but I will certainly buy my own turkey at
Smithfield and I hope City workers and residents will do so
too.”
Sir Michael Snyder, Deputy Chairman of the City of London’s
Policy and Resources committee said: “The City Corporation is
committed to supporting Smithfield – and encouraging its future
success. We take very seriously our commitment to helping
people find jobs in the City - whether as a trader in Smithfield or
an investment house.
“As with all markets – financial or meat – there will be ups and
downs. Although there are tough times ahead, we must not talk
ourselves down too much.”
Peter Martinelli, Chairman of the Organising committee of the
Banquet said: “This Banquet provides an opportunity to promote
Smithfield Market as well as paying tribute to the City of London
Corporation and its historical link with the meat trade.”
Notes to editors
The City of London Corporation a number of London-wide services
whose benefits go well beyond the Square Mile. Among these are the
wholesale food markets - Smithfield, Billingsgate and Spitalfields
- that have become synonymous with the highest quality
ingredients.
Smithfield Market is world renowned for the range of its meat
and poultry. Approximately 120,000 tons of produce pass through the
market each year. As well as meat and poultry, products such as
cheese, pies, and other delicatessen goods are available. Buyers
including butchers, restaurateurs and caterers are able to see the
goods for themselves and drive away with what they have bought
Press enquiries
For press enquiries, please call Loretta Lui on 020 7332
1528.