Honorary Beadle

Honorary Beadle: Martin Whitehead

The role of a Beadle is to maintain the traditions and protocols of the Company working collaboratively with the Clerk, Master, and Court to ensure smooth running of formal Livery events. The Beadle acts as Toastmaster and maintains good order and timing. The Beadle looks after Company treasures, gowns and other regalia, and also assists at Court meetings, ceremonies and church services. The Beadle will usually accompany the Master at City events such as the Election of the Lord Mayor and Sheriffs.

Martin Whitehead has been Honorary Beadle to the Worshipful Company of Nurses since the Guild of Nurses was formed following approval by The Court of Aldermen in 2016. Previously Martin had been Honorary Beadle to the Guild of Educators until they gained Livery, becoming the Worshipful Company of Educators.

Martin's career was as a Chartered Engineer working within research, design, and development of combustion engines. He is a member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and a Chartered Engineer. His career involved considerable overseas travel and for some years he and his wife lived and worked in the US.

Martin states that the best aspects of being a Beadle are meeting people, being part of the traditions, and officiating at seamless functions where the inevitable hiccups are never noticed. In July 2023 Martin was welcomed as an Honorary Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Nurses, an honour granted in grateful thanks for his services to the Company.