During the year ended 31st March 2014, the Foundation enjoyed another successful year. Our investment portfolio continues to be closely monitored and again increased in value. Income for the year amounted to £55,000. In May 2013, our Master, Mr Anthony Phillips, held a most successful fundraising event at Ascot Racecourse, raising in excess of £51,000 for his chosen charities. Our Foundation benefitted by some £17,000 from this event. The Trustees are most grateful for a generous donation received from a Past Master of the Company. These funds will be added to our investment portfolio to enhance income in future years. The Trustees also thank the Feltmakers Lodge for their support. Income from the St Clements initiative increased during the year. The Trustees thank all existing contributors for their support but would encourage other Liverymen to support our Charity by joining the scheme.
During the year, the Foundation made grants of some £42,000. Recipients included the Design Award winners, the Lord Mayor’s Appeal, support for trainee milliners, and the Armed Forces and cadet organisations. A grant was also made for the first time in support of a chorister at St Paul’s Cathedral. This will be for an initial period of 6 years. The Foundation continued to support Pensioner Hatters with grants at Christmas and by a contribution to the annual Atherstone Pensioners Lunch. The Trustees again record their appreciation of the continuing support given by the Haberdashers’ Company in part funding these grants. The Foundation will continue to support its regular beneficiaries during the current year, but the Trustees are always receptive to requests from Liverymen to support charitable ventures in which they are personally involved.
Finally, I would like to pay tribute to my predecessor as Chairman, Past Master Commander John Curteis, who sadly died in September 2013. John had been appointed a Trustee in July 2007 and had become Chairman of Trustees in April 2009. He had successfully led the Foundation during his time as Chairman and his quiet leadership, guidance and advice will be sorely missed. I would also like to thank all my fellow Trustees who served during the year for their help and advice.

Past Master John Ray
Chairman of Trustees