New Master Cutler vows to speak up for industry

Mr Speirs, an accountant, engineer and university professor, is chief executive of ProTurn, which offers help to companies experiencing trading or financial difficulties.

He is due to be installed next week in traditional ceremonies at the Cutlers Hall and Sheffield Cathedral.

Mr Speirs said: "I have no doubt that the year ahead would have been eventful even without the current economic situation.

"Fortunately, I have the ability to focus on the job in hand and, while I shall clearly be very busy with my 'day job', the fact that I have been elected as Master at this crucial time presents me with the type of opportunity I relish.

"Manufacturing and technology in this region need a clear, unified and energetic voice. With the backing of the Company of Cutlers and the support of its excellent, hard-working Freeman, we can make that voice heard."

Scottish-born Mr Speirs became a Freeman of the Company of Cutlers more than 25 years ago.

His installation will create an unbroken line of Masters since August 1624 when the Cutlers' Company was formed to protect the city's craftsmen and their craft.

It ensured marks were registered, apprentices engaged, blades correctly made and the rules of business strictly adhered to.

The installation is expected to be a family affair with Mr Speirs' children, grandchildren and elderly father set to take part.