Praise for 'great work' as clerk to guild steps down after 12 years

Mark Branagan

THE “great work” of Colonel James Finlay OBE has been praised as he stepped down from running the guild of Merchant Adventurers of the City of York after 12 years service.

Based in a hall that dates from medieval times, the guild is a thriving organisation for successful professional and business people in York and Yorkshire.

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Col Finlay has followed a long line of clerks to the company and has worked tirelessly since 1998 to uphold the traditions and purposes of the guild.

The governor of the company Richard Haynes said: “During his time as clerk James Finlay made a great contribution to the York Merchant Adventurers Company.

“He also became a leading figure among the London livery companies and the other York guilds.

“I am delighted that he has been made an honorary member of the company so we will not be losing touch with James and his wife Joanna.”

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His replacement is Capt Stephen Upright, who has recently retired from the Navy after 33 years service, mainly in submarines.

Col Finlay’s retirement plans include spending time in pursuit of some of his hobbies and interests including fly fishing and shooting.

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