Congratulations from everyone at the Savile Row Bespoke Association (SRBA) go to Tristan Thorne (pictured, top centre), who has been appointed Journeyman as a part of The Master Certification Scheme of the Livery Companies of the City of London.

Tristan, Senior Cutter at founding SRBA member and Row stalwart Dege & Skinner, received the award as recognition of the level of skill he consistently meets in his work.

The Master Certificate Scheme is designed to encourage career progression in areas of skills identified with the City of London Livery Companies.

The three levels of The Master Certification Scheme are:

Apprentice: an apprentice who has achieved a high standard.

Journeyman: a qualified Craftsman or Professional who continues to excel in their trade.

Master: the list includes Director, Manager, Supervisor, Lecturer, Sole Proprietor and Experienced Craftsman, who are recognised as Masters in their craft by their peers.

The Worshipful Company of  Merchant Taylors, the livery company for genuine bespoke tailors, was given its first Royal Charter by Edward III in 1327. Initially an association of tailors and linen armourers (who made the padded tunics worn under armour), the company grew to such an extent that it regulated and administered the tailoring trade. Today, in keeping with the City of London’s other Livery Companies, it serves to support charitable and educational initiatives, while its splendid Merchant Taylors’ Hall on Threadneedle Street remains the spiritual home of bespoke tailoring.