Double honours for the GGF receiving the Freedom of the City of London

In a double honour, the Glass and Glazing Federation’s CEO John Agnew and technical officer and training manager John Mannell have each been awarded the Freedom of the City of London.

This prestigious honour, which is traditionally bestowed upon individuals who have made a significant contribution to their city often as part of a guild or trade, were made in two separate ceremonies. John Agnew received his honour from the Worshipful Company of Glass Sellers, and John Mannell received his from the Worshipful Company of Glaziers.

This places the GGF, John Agnew, John Mannell, and indeed all the hard work of the GGF employees, in esteemed company, alongside Queen Elizabeth II, Winston Churchill, Charles Darwin, Nelson Mandela and David Beckham.

“The Worshipful Company of Glass Sellers was keen to work more closely with our glass sector, and we have been having constructive and proactive conversations around both improving the training within the glazing industry, and improving our environmental impact by implementing processes towards a more circular economy.,” commented GGF’s CEO John Agnew.

“My wife Tanya and I witnessed a most fascinating ceremony that was conducted by the Beadle and Clerk of the Chamberlin Court. This honour gives us a strong and influential voice in the overall glass sector in the UK.”

John Mannell added: “I was invited to join the Worshipful Company of Glaziers to be part of the education committee. As well as driving improvements and change, it is also vital to work to preserve some of the more traditional skills. While some of the more ceremonial benefits of this honour (such as the right to drive sheep over London Bridge) may not be completely relevant to us, it is rewarding to have confirmation of the GGF’s contribution and achievements, particularly around training and education.”