Ingenieurs et Scientifiques de France British Section
The British Section of IESF links Anglo-French engineering and science as part of a global French Learned Society.
- Date
- 16 November 2026
- Time
- 17:30 - 19:00 GMT
- Location
-
The Royal Thames Yacht Club 60 Knightsbridge London, SW1X 7LF United Kingdom
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16-11-2026 17:30
16-11-2026 19:00
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Europe/London
The Bridgemasters of London – 850 years of engineering, ceremony and scandal
https://www.ice.org.uk/events/upcoming-events/the-bridgemasters-of-london
The Royal Thames Yacht Club, London
Free
Book nowOverview
The IESF British section presents an evening lecture by Sue Threader, one of two elected bridgemasters of London.
The role of Bridgemaster originated in 1176 to oversee the construction of Old London Bridge and the management of its properties, accounts and ceremonies.
Over the centuries, the office and responsibilities evolved, but the position was often marred by financial fraud, election manipulation and negligence.
In this lecture, Sue will provide a fascinating insight into one of the oldest appointments in civic society and bridge engineering.
She will share stories of scandal and controversy, while also exploring the modern role of the Bridgemasters in supporting and promoting the charitable work of the City Bridge Foundation.
Attendance & Registration Information
All are welcome to attend this free lecture. A drinks reception and dinner will follow for members and invited guests, and IESF non-members may also attend by following the registration steps below.
Lecture Only
Please register your place using the link provided or by emailing [email protected] with your name and company.
Drinks Reception and/or Dinner
IESF non-members wishing to book the drinks reception (£10 per person) or the drinks reception and dinner should request a booking form by emailing [email protected]
Venue
The Royal Thames Yacht Club
60 Knightsbridge
London
SW1X 7LF
Programme
17:30 - 18:00
Registration and refreshments
18:00 - 19:00
Lecture
19:15 - 19:50
Drinks reception
19:50 - 22:00
Dinner
22:00
Close
Speaker
Sue Threader FICE
Rochester Bridge Trust
chief executive
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Sue Threader FICE
Sue Threader is a chartered civil engineer and fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers with extensive senior-level experience in the public, private and charity sectors. She blends her responsibilities as Chief Executive of the unique medieval charity, the Rochester Bridge Trust, with an active commitment to researching and communicating the history of civil engineering to the public, including as a member of the ICE Archives Panel.
She is the author of “Learning about Bridges” – a learning resource for primary schools – and in 2016 was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Science for her work to promote the profession of civil engineering, particularly to young people.
From April 2019, Sue was the client lead for the 21-month, multi-million pound refurbishment of the three Rochester Bridges, a complex and challenging once-in-a-generation project.
Sustainable Development Goals:
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