The Society of Merchant Venturers charts new course
The Society of Merchant Venturers is due to hold its special Charter Day Service at Bristol Cathedral on 10 November at 11am. This signifies a change of Master and precedes a ceremony, held at Merchants’ Hall, where the outgoing Master, Trevor Smallwood, is succeeded by Colin Skellett, the new and incoming Master.
The annual event, which includes a ceremonial procession of up to 70 Merchants in morning dress, is a celebration of the Society being granted its charter by Edward VI in 1552.
It also celebrates Bristol’s strong traditions, heritage and pioneering spirit which underpins the important work the Society does in the city today.
Following the ceremony, Colin Skellett will be formally elected as the new Master of the Society of Merchant Venturers for the next 12 months. His priorities will include the continued support of education - including the Merchants’ own academy - to charitable trusts, youth groups, business and enterprise as well as providing care and services to the city’s older people.
Mr Skellett said the Merchants are proud of the positive contribution they are making to the lives of many young people in Bristol by enriching their learning experience.
He said: “Since we launched the £29 million Merchants’ Academy in Withywood in September 2008, there has been strong progress. Individual Merchants are making a very significant personal commitment to this Academy, driven by a desire to achieve a strong, sustainable trend of improvement.
“A year after moving into the state sector, Colston’s Girls’ School has seen incredible demand for places and an ambitious plan to grow from 400 to 720 pupils by 2013.
“The £11.2 million investment to further develop the school is well underway. This will include a new arts building, the creation of laboratories and a new library.
”One of the ongoing priorities of the Society is the care of the city’s older residents through its support of organisations such as the St Monica Trust, Cote Charity and the Society’s own almshouses.
Mr Skellett said: “The Almshouses entrusted to the Society are facing further changes. A major redevelopment plan is on the horizon that will enable the charity to meet the needs and demands associated with sheltered housing, yet without losing that very special spirit and link that exists within the Society.
”A particular priority for the coming year will be encouraging young enterprise – working with the Prince’s Trust and others to help young people become the entrepreneurs of the future.
ENDS
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