Private Function in Swindon

[toby webb]

 The attached, which I would like to know more about, is of a function, probably in a public house's private room, which took place in about 1910. Can anyone identify the insignia worn by the man in the front row as it may tell more about the occasion. Thanks, Toby.

[davierj]

It appears not too formal, it is probably not Masonic.   Might be associated with the railways.    I'm intrigued by the guy with the medal - what is he wearing on his right foot and who has hidden a bottle of wine under the table?

[toby webb]

Well spotted with the bottle.I think he is wearing spats.
Toby.

[davierj]

I think spats came later, 20s or 30s, but they were over the shoes not higher up the leg.   

Dave

[toby webb]

Perhaps I cropped too much. Here is the foot.
T

[davierj]

My mistake, I was way off line, he certainly is wearing spats an I've since discovered that they were going out of fashion by the 1920s.   He must have been someone of wealth or importance to have worn them.

[Ruskie]

My mistake, I was way off line, he certainly is wearing spats an I've since discovered that they were going out of fashion by the 1920s.   He must have been someone of wealth or importance to have worn them.

Why?

I am wondering if he may have been a mayor?

[Milliepede]

All very smart aren't they bow ties and such like. 

Have you zoomed into the sheriff star to see if you can make out any other detail? 
High sheriff of Wiltshire perhaps.

[davierj]

It appears to me to be a meeting of a gentleman's social club or senior management of an industry.   I have not seen a badge like that before