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| | Bridging the gap |
 | | The early companies, mostly created around the 11th century, were the medieval equivalent of trading standards departments – checking the quality of goods, controlling imports, setting wages and working conditions, training apprentices and licensing the traders to carry out their business around the Guildhall in the heart of the City. |
 | | One of the most modern of these companies is the Worshipful Company of Chartered Surveyors, which was founded in 1977. |
 | | Finally, in terms of fellowship there are a number of inter-livery sporting events in which the Worshipful Company participates, such as clay pigeon shooting, tennis, golf and the swimathon. |
| www.rics.org /AboutRICS/Relatedorganisations/biz_bridging_june06.html (1097 words) |
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