The 8^th Annual Patrons’ of Lichfield Cathedral Dinner saw 165 guests from all over the country enjoy the unique experience of dining in the splendid medieval surroundings of Lichfield Cathedral.

The highlight of a very successful Dinner was an entertaining and thought-provoking speech by Roy Hattersley, former Deputy Leader of the Labour Party. On the subject, ‘What are Politicians for?’, Mr Hattersley argued that politicians should act according to the dictates of their conscience and not simply respond to the will of their constituents. He argued strongly for the politics of conviction rather than personality, and also criticised the recent references by MPs to the ‘deserving and undeserving poor’. The speech was very well-received and provoked some lively conversation afterwards.

The prestigious, black-tie event began with a drinks reception in the Cathedral Transepts, followed by a delicious four course dinner served in the Nave.

The Very Rev’d Adrian Dorber, Dean of Lichfield attended the event:

“Roy Hattersley gave an eloquent, well-argued and witty speech about politics as a necessary profession. He took a well-aimed swipe at those who practise politics as a form of style rather than conviction and substance. It was well received by the dinner guests, who attended in record numbers”.

Roy Hattersley

Born in Sheffield, the former Cabinet Minister and Deputy Leader of the Labour Party is one of Britain’s most prolific writers and journalists. At the age of 30, Roy was elected to Parliament where he quickly became Minister of various departments. Appointed a Privy Councillor in 1975, he joined the Cabinet in 1976 as Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Affairs and was elected Deputy Leader of the Labour party in 1983. With his dry Yorkshire humour, he was a highly entertaining speaker and the Patrons of Lichfield Cathedral are very grateful that he was able to be an important part of the 2011 dinner.  

The Patrons of Lichfield Cathedral

The Patrons of Lichfield Cathedral play a vital part in the preservation and development of the heritage of the Cathedral.  For over 1,300 years a Cathedral has stood in Lichfield.  The essential support provided by the Patrons helps to maintain the fabric and fosters links and relationships between the Cathedral and its supporters in business and the community.  For enquiries about becoming a Cathedral Patron and attending the 2012 Patrons’ Dinner please contact Madeleine Budgen on 01543 306120 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it