In 1515 the City Livery companies – ancient trade associations responsible for quality and price of goods, training of apprentices and support for members’ dependents – were given an order of precedence.
This was meant to stop their squabbling over seniority – as it happens number two are the Grocers and number three are the Drapers.
I recently noticed inspired trolling by the Grocers’ company of the Drapers’ – outside the official entrance to the Drapers’, high up on the pediment opposite, I spy the Grocers’ symbol with the distinctive cloves.
I’m sure this is a deliberate “ in your face” piece of one-upmanship by the Grocers.
