About the Appeal
2022 is a very special and significant milestone in the long and distinguished history of the Distillers. It marks the 350th anniversary of our Worshipful Company being granted Livery status by the Court of Aldermen in 1672. From that point onwards, we took our place alongside the other Livery Companies of the day, could vote, take part in civic ceremonies and support the work of the Corporation of London and the Lord Mayor. It also meant that we would become a focal point for the spirits industry.
350 years later, this essence is more alive and well than ever, delivering our charitable goals and helping the Livery play an ever more important role in the community.
The Worshipful Company purpose is to be at the heart of the Spirits industry and through our charitable giving to improve young people’s lives. The Distillers’ Charity is providing vital support to key Livery & City charity partners, as well as funding Vocational Training & Education for the next generation of distillers and developing the new Youth Action Fund in Scotland. Our principal Livery & City charities supported include;
The Drinks Trust, who offer care and support to the people who form the industry workforce, both past and present. The Trust provides individuals with services across vocational, well-being, financial and practical support.
The Alcohol Education Trust, are a leading early intervention charity that supports young people aged 11 – 25 to keep safe around alcohol. AET work is delivered through schools and youth organisations who are supported free of charge with award-winning resources and training.
The Lord Mayor’s A Better City Appeal for Future Zone in Barking & Dagenham. Future is London’s first OnSide Youth Zone, which enables young people to raise their aspirations and confidence creating a happier and healthier next generation.
Our Livery is increasingly young and dynamic, representing the vibrancy of the distilling industry in the 21st century. Every member has the opportunity to engage in the The Master’s 350th Anniversary Appeal through their donations, volunteering and fundraising. To shine a light of all these activities, and to mark the granting of our Livery status in 1672, in the next 12 months I will be visiting 12 distilleries in England and Scotland to promote the amazing work that the Livery and its teams are doing up and to help raise funds for our charities.
You too can take part in this historic moment by getting involved in our charitable work.
Thank you for your support to our 350th Anniversary Appeal. Together we can make a difference so more young people can thrive and have a better future.
Chris Porter
Master
2021-2022
Help Us Reach Our Goal
Raised
Latest Appeal News
Glenfarclas Distillery – Master’s Distillery Visit
The Master made the fifth of the twelve visits to distilleries around the country, one per month of his Year in celebration of the Livery’s 350th Anniversary Year. Focusing is on the charitable work and incredible contributions being made by Distillers up and down the country and how our industry is thriving, responding and managing […]
Fellow Liveryman Dr. Gordon Steele Shares his Mentoring Experience
I am delighted to share this very compelling and considered video with you. I share it in the hope that it may inspire some of you now, and if not now, in the future, to share the great knowledge, and experience that you have accumulated throughout your careers in our fascinating industry. Last but not […]
The Lakes Distillery – Master’s Distillery Visit
What a fabulous day spent in the company of Liveryman Nigel Mills, CEO and co-founder of The Lakes Distillery. This was my third of twelve monthly visits during my year as Master, to celebrate the 350th Anniversary of our Livery and my Master’s Appeal. It also of courses celebrates the creativity, innovation, and wonderful spirits […]
English Whisky Company – Distillery Visit
I was warmly welcomed by Liveryman Andrew Nelstropp and his team at The English Whisky Company in Roudham, Norfolk on January 19th, the second of twelve distillery visits that I’m doing in my year to raise awareness and funding for our 350th Anniversary Appeal. Accompanied by Lucy Marcuson from The Drinks Trust, one of our […]
