At 7.30pm on a fine, mild autumnal evening, nearly 50 World Traders and their guests were taken through the West Gate of the Tower of London by our guide, Yeoman Warder Spike Abbott.

Spike gave us a fascinating tour of the Tower and its history, and to our surprise, the very first thing we were shown was the International Space Station passing overhead in a compelling conjunction of the ancient and the modern.

Judging by the laughter and smiles of the evening, Spike could have a second career as a stand up comedian! Nevertheless, we learned much about the iconic landmark that far surpassed any ordinary tour.

We then retired to the Yeoman Warders’ bar for a drink before witnessing the Ceremony of the Keys. The raffle was drawn and we were, fortunately, allowed to leave at 10.30pm after a wonderful evening.