The Worshipful Company of Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers

About Us

Gold and silver wyre drawing was brought to the City of London by European craftsmen and was well established by the 15th century.

Today

Gold and silver thread continues to be used for embroidering badges, banners, and vestments, on service uniforms, and University Chancellors' gowns. Although few liverymen still have links with the craft, which has shrunk considerably, the Company is closely associated with the Royal School of Needlework. It fully funds an apprentice at the School and every year presents a prize for the best apprentice work in gold and silver wire. The Company also fully funds an opera student at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. The first annual award was made in 2002.

Apart from its charitable interests, the Company has links with the armed Services - the Royal Logistic Corps, The Queen's Colour Squadron RAF and the Central Band of the RAF both based at RAF Uxbridge, the Royal Navy submarine 'Victorious' (recently re-dedicated following a refit) and 814 Squadron Fleet Air Arm ("The Flying Tigers") who are based at RNAS Culdrose.

There are over 300 liverymen and the social programme includes an annual banquet which is usually held at Mansion House.