From the creation of one of the world’s first Parliaments, to the beheading of Charles I; the crowning of Queen Victoria to electoral reform in 1868; Chamberlain’s “we are at war” speech, and Churchill’s declaration of victory in Europe; and the election of our first female Prime Minister, there have been many pivotal events along the way.
So what unites the above other than historical significance? Location.
Each of these defining moments took place in Westminster, the seat of power in Great Britain for almost a thousand years, and now the setting of another landmark moment – PLMR’s relocation to Church House.
Although of marginally less national significance than some of the events above – this is clearly big news.
After just six years, when the company was started by MD Kevin Craig and new recruit and hot young thing Chris Calland (see profile photo page for an insight into how things have changed) we are now 27 strong, approaching £2 million in turnover, and moving into fitting new premises.
Church House itself has a rich history. Founded in 1887, it was initially built to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria.
The foundation stone was laid by Her Majesty, Queen Mary, and the current Church House was officially opened by King George Vl, on 10 June 1940.
When the building was bombed in the early part of WWII Prime Minister Winston Churchill, was so impressed by how it withstood a direct hit that Church House was used by both Houses of Parliament for the remainder of the war.
Since then, Church House has played host to the first meetings of the UN Security Council in 1945, the recent Church of England vote on women bishops, and now… PLMR’s move to Westminster.
So, at the dawn of this new era, clearly a defining moment in the early 21st century, Westminster looks set to remain at the heart of power.