
Martin Shenton FICME, former Chair of the Cast Metals Federation and Director of UK iron foundry and engineering business, James W Shenton Ltd has become the latest Master of the Worshipful Company of Founders.
The Founder’s Company is one of the oldest Livery Companies of the City of London and can trace its existence back to 1365 when, as one of the early medieval guilds, it was formed to promote the interests of its members and to ensure high standards of quality and workmanship in articles of bronze and brass. The Company was granted its formative Ordinances by the Court of Lord Mayor and Aldermen on 29th July 1365 and there is evidence of a more informal existence prior to this date.
Today, more than 650 years later, the Founders’ Company continues to support research and education in related disciplines and in industry, and seeks to help to promote technical education and research in areas relevant to the foundry industry and awards bursaries, and scholarships, to students. Support for education is also given at secondary schools with which the Company has close historical ties.
“Becoming the Master is a great honour,” said Martin. “The foundry industry is a huge part of my life, and of course is a fundamental part of the UK manufacturing supply chain, and I am looking forward to being able to continue raise its profile further during the coming year in my role as Master.”