Newsletter - October 2024

Another busy month has gone by with many interesting visits taking place both for myself and the Livery. You will see details of them below and some of them were quite spectacular.

Particular mention should be made of the Carriage Drive at Woburn Abbey and the visit to the barracks of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment at Hyde Park. I shall never forget the size of the Drum Major’s horse! It was eye opening to see what goes on behind the public appearances. Many thanks to everyone who helped to organise these visits.

I do look forward to seeing many of you at the Autumn Court Dinner on 17th October. Again my grateful thanks to the members of our Communications Committee, who collate all these articles and produce this newsletter.

George Anderson - Master 2024

Turning Heads to the Sounds of the Post Horn

On Saturday 7th September, a party of 14 Loriners and guests, hosted by Immediate Past Master, Colin Gurley, enjoyed a two-hour carriage drive around the outstanding grounds and deer park of Woburn Abbey, the home of the Duke and Duchess of Bedford.

Our carriages were provided by Westway Carriages and comprised a wagonette, seating six people and drawn by four white Lipizzaners and a magnificently restored Victorian coach, seating eight, with four-in-hand, which was drawn by four black Friesians. Both carriages and horses were beautifully turned out with two drivers and three grooms.

Departing from Westways base at Old Farm, Potgrove, we made an impressive sight as we entered Woburn Village to the sounds of the post horn played from the top of the coach that not only turned heads - it also lead an impressive tail back of traffic!

We then stopped mid-way and our party enjoyed a splendid picnic against the backdrop of a bridge over a large lake with a herd of deer. Thankfully, the rain stayed well away from us throughout.

Upon returning to Old Farm, we were given a tour by owner David West, who showed us the harness room, extensive carriage collection and horses. There was also an opportunity for a static carriage driving lesson, followed by tea.

Once again, this was another Loriners unique experience that was greatly enjoyed by all who attended. Our thanks go to David West and his team and to our newly appointed Court Assistant, Tricia Nassau-Williams, for organising this event and arranging the most memorable picnic.

Immediate Past Master, Colin Gurley

Memories abound at the Major General's Tournament, Guards Polo Club, Windsor

Sunday 8th September saw 18 Loriners and guests make their way to the Guards' Polo Club, near Windsor, to attend the final leg of the Major General's Tournament. The night before experienced thunder, lightning and heavy rain, but thankfully, on the day itself, we had blue skies and some sunshine.

After a fine lunch with a military band playing in the background, the Loriners' PM Chris Walton, on behalf of The Master, thanked all those Loriners and guests for attending and also thanked PM Liz Hobday for making all the arrangements for a superb visit. PM Liz also made it possible to have The Loriners' Polo Cup, presented by the Late Past Master David Lancaster, to be displayed on the table. The Loriners acknowledged that it was two years to the day that the late Queen passed away.

The party then made its way to the prize giving area, where the late Queen’s favourite riding fell pony, Emma, was brought forward by the former stud groom and manager, Terry Pendry CVO BEM.

The Queen rode Emma for some 18 years and we were told that this was to be Emma’s final public appearance. We all felt extremely privileged.

The match, Mirror/Libertine v Mad Dogs then took place. Mirror/Libertine took a healthy early lead and, although Mad Dogs made a strong comeback, Mirror/Libertines won the match 6 to 3. The cup and prizes were presented on behalf of the Major General by Col. Guy Stone LVO Chief of Staff, London District. The Most Valuable Player was Lord Manton, who, incidentally, won the same trophy 38 years ago.

After prize giving, the Loriners retired to the main building and had a refreshing tea before departing. All agreed that the Loriners should make arrangements to have a ‘Loriners Day’ in 2025, when the Loriners' Cup could be presented.

Past Master, Christopher Walton

Memorial Service for Past Master David Lancaster

On Wednesday 11th September, The Master, with several other members of the Company, attended the Memorial Service for Past Master David Lancaster (Master 2006) and his wife Eugenie. The service was held in the church of St. Botolph-without-Bishopsgate, as they were both members of the Bishopsgate Ward Club. It was arranged by the Ward Club and the Worshipful Company of Musicians, of which they were both strong supporters. David died in December 2023 and Eugenie in March 2024.

The service was very moving and, if one can say so about such an occasion, a very happy and enjoyable tribute to David and Eugenie. Hymns included 'Jerusalem', written by William Blake and orchestrated by Hubert Party, and others which were well known and liked by members of the congregation, who sang with vigour.

Master, George Anderson

Freeman Focus - Alec Hurley

This month, our Freeman Focus is on Alec Hurley, a Wing Commander who retired from the RAF in March 2022. Alec was made a Freeman of the Company earlier this year and kindly told us about his background and why he wanted to become a Liveryman:

"I was invited to attend the Loriners' Spring Luncheon by Dr Richard Forster as I had intimated that I wished to join a livery company. It was a splendid affair with a truly interesting speaker. I met so many interesting people that day, both at the lunch and later in the pub. I was then proposed by Richard and Dr Nigel Berman to become a Freeman of the Company.

Along with Richard and Nigel, I served for many years in the Royal Air Force with fellow Wing Commander Graham Pattenden, initially when he was Station Commander and I was a Chief Instructor in Aviation Medicine at RAF Henlow. Before retiring, Graham and I went on to teach RAF Air Cadets to fly in the Grob 109 aircraft; a highlight of our RAF career and a real privilege for us both.

'The picture on the right is of me at Weston Super Mare in May 1968. There's a drink for the first Loriner who can say what I was doing and why I had a green hat band.

'The second picture of me (left) was taken 55 years later at the 2023 Remembrance parade with the RAF Air Cadets.

'I have had a lifelong fascination with everything relating to London, in all of its myriad guises. Although much has changed or been lost, much still remains and is to be cherished. One element is the ancient institutions of the City of London, the Guilds and Worshipful Companies. I so look forward to absorbing the tradition and history of all that they have to offer and to play whatever small part I can in maintaining their preservation.

'I feel privileged to belong to an organisation that provides help to those whose circumstances preclude them from being with, working with or simply enjoying horses; those who, if they were lucky, would never get closer to a horse than seeing them majestically pass by at a ceremony. The Loriners gives them a chance and a means to bridge that gap and make the unobtainable possible for them, by supporting dedicated charities that provide such an experience. I haven't ridden a horse in years, but it's a thrill that has remained and others less fortunate should be given a chance to experience it.

'I served 30 years in the Royal Air Force in two phases. In the latter part, I was a Senior Flight Medical Officer specialising in Aviation Medicine, especially the effects of hypoxia (lack of oxygen). My service took me to many interesting locations, as well as some shockingly awful places and I was lucky to work with wonderful people. I still hold a Reserve Commission and put on a uniform twice a week to teach RAF Air Cadets.

'This picture shows me with my last patient ever - the day I retired at the end of the Covid pandemic in March 2022."

Freeman Alec Hurley

Dinner and (very heavy) Drums at the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

On Thursday 19th September, the Master, together with the Master Farrier and Master Saddler, was entertained to dinner by the officers of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment at Knightsbridge Barracks. Before dinner, along with our Clerks, we were given a tour of the Farriers' forge, the Saddlers' workshop and the ceremonial uniform store. In each area, we were given a very informative talk by one of the staff and the Master had a good hack and swing with an officer’s sword (a very expensive item!)

The final part of our tour was to the stables, where we met 'Atlas', one of the cavalry's Drum Horses and the largest horse in the army at 19 hands and nearly 9 feet to the top of his head. By tradition, Drum Horses are given names from classical mythology and Atlas is one of four currently used by the Household Cavalry, together with Juno, Perseus and Apollo. As well as carrying the Drum Major himself, Atlas carries two solid silver kettle drums. These were originally presented to Royal Horse Guards by King George III in 1805 and they each weigh 52kg.

After the tour, the guests were treated to a wonderful dinner in the Officers’ Mess and had a chance to admire the many paintings of officers, including one of our Gallant Clerk, Colonel Crispin Lockhart, in full uniform. It was a very enjoyable and generous occasion from the Officers of the HCMR.

Master, George Anderson

Honorary Liveryman Supports Team GB at Paris Olympics

Honorary Liveryman Jane Holderness Roddam attended the Paris Olympics in July to support the GB Equestrian Team. Jane, who is an amazing equestrian in her own right and a generous supporter of our Company, wore the Olympic top that she used while running with the Olympic torch in London 2012 games. Whilst there, she was thrilled to see the GB Three Day Eventing Team win Gold.

Court Assistant, Patricia Nassau-Williams

Forging Loriners’ Links within the Equine Trade

On Sunday 22rd September, the Immediate Past Master, Colin Gurley, together with Past Master Sue Douthwaite and escorted by Loriners’ Steward for BETA, Michael Bacon, attended the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) trade show, held at the NAEC Stoneleigh. This was followed by BETA’s Annual Awards Gala Dinner.

The IPM thanked Clare Williams, CEO of BETA, for the kind invitation to attend and reinforced the Loriners’ commitment to working with BETA to promote the education of equine welfare, in particular that relating to the fitting of bits and bridles.

The event provided an ideal opportunity to connect with all the equine trades in one place and, in particular, with Richard Brown and the team from Abbey England, possibly the last Lorinery manufacturer in the UK. The Abbey England stand included a large display of bits that they produce.

A most interesting tour of the stands concluded with a visit to the Equine Fitters’ Council (EFC) stand that was strategically situated close to the Events demonstration area. The EFC is an independent and not-for-profit company established jointly by the Worshipful Company of Saddlers and the Worshipful Company of Loriners. The principal function of the Council is the administration and operation of the Directory of Equine Fitters. The Equine Fitters Directory is an independent searchable database and a comprehensive resource, informing and empowering equestrians to make the right choices on behalf of the horse.

It was encouraging to see many fitters and horse owners showing such interest in the Directory and it is hoped that more people will join. It was also extremely interesting to hear some of the 'fitting’ stories, which demonstrated clearly the need for the Directory.

In the evening, the IPM, PM and Steward attended the BETA Awards Dinner and were hosted by Ben Laurie, Prime Warden Saddler and received the saddlers usual outstanding hospitality. A number of awards were presented under various categories and all the winners were congratulated with rapturous applause!

It was indeed a most enjoyable visit, forging the Loriners’ Company links within the equine trade in general.

Immediate Past Master, Colin Gurley

Behind the Scenes Tour of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

The Master and Mistress, together with the Under Warden and a group of nine Loriners, had a memorable visit to the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment's barracks at Knightsbridge on Monday 23rd September, as guests of the Commanding Officer, LT Col. Matthew Woodward.

They enjoyed an extensive tour of the barracks and gained an understanding of the tremendous amount of work that goes on behind the scenes, stabling and looking after more than 200 horses and of course preparing them for the many ceremonial events each year.

Pictured above is the ceremonial uniform of the Life Guards (left) and the Blues & Royals (right) and the ceremonial riding boots worn by HRH The Princess Royal, Paster Master of the Loriners 1992-1993.

The tour concluded with lunch in the Officers' Mess, during which the Master spoke warmly of the longstanding and valued relationship with this iconic regiment and he thanked the Commanding Officer for his most kind hospitality.

Under Warden, John Morton

Celebrating the ancient tradition of the London Sheep Drive

On Sunday 29th September, our Master Dr George Anderson dressed up in full regalia to drive his sheep to market over Southwark Bridge, on what undoubtedly was a chilly September morning. Thankfully, the rain held off and the sheep were well behaved, doubtless overawed by our Master's shepherding skills.

The tradition of the Sheep Drive dates back hundreds of years, when Freeman of the City of London could drive their sheep, free of charge, across London Bridge into the City of London to sell their produce. Hosted by the Worshipful Company of Woolmen, it is now a celebrated charity event, which raises funds for the Woolmen Charity and the Lord Mayor's Appeal.

More than 1,000 Freemen of the City of London attended the event this year.

Following successful delivery of his flock, the Master, accompanied by the Immediate Past Master, took the opportunity to call at a number of stands of Livery Companies at the adjacent Livery Fair.

The principal guest this year was actor Damian Lewis, who, together with the Lord Mayor, attracted much attention. The Worshipful Company of Woolmen, which organises this annual event, is to be congratulated, as is the Guild of Young Freemen, bedecked in red capes, who provided Stewards as usual.

Immediate Past Master, Colin Gurley

Livery Companies gather for Common Hall to elect the new Lord Mayor

On 30th September, members of the City Livery Companies gathered for Common Hall to elect the new Lord Mayor for the coming year. To give a very brief history, the term 'Common Hall' originated from an early assembly of citizens known as a Congregation, which itself is understood to come from the ancient name 'Folkmoot'.

The Master was gowned and badged in the Crypt of Guildhall and processed across Guildhall Yard, with all the other Livery Company Masters, to the Church of St Lawrence Jewry, for a service prior to Common Hall. After the service, the Masters then made their way into Guildhall's Great Hall, following the Lord Mayor, Sheriffs and Aldermen where, with the Livery of the City, the Lord Mayor for the following year was elected.

The election itself followed a traditional procession into the Great Hall, with Aldermen, Sheriffs past and present, Officers involved in the proceedings and, of course, the current Lord Mayor taking their seats on the dias.

There are two rounds of voting; the first involving all Liverymen and the second involving the Lord Mayor and Aldermen who proceed out of the Great Hall to the Print Room, where they cast the final vote.

This year, Alastair John Nesbitt King DL was elected at the 696th Lord Mayor of the City of London and he will officially take office on Friday 8th November.

Following this very lengthy election ceremony, including many cries of “Oyez! Oyez!”, Common Hall was dissolved. A party of 16 Loriners, including those who attended the election, then went for lunch at Barber-Surgeons’ Hall by kind invitation of the Master Barber. This was much enjoyed by all the visiting Masters and Livery.

At the end, the Master Loriner gave a short speech, in which he revealed that it was exactly 50 years since the Barbers had first invited the Loriners to dine at Barber-Surgeons’ Hall after Common Hall. In token of this, he presented a Loriners’ Coin to the Master Barber as a momento.

In accepting the coin, the Master Barber thanked our Master and then pointed out that, in the minutes dating back 50 years, it was written: 'Such revelry was had, that the Loriners need to be reminded to look after the carpets!'. Upon this calumny, the lunch ended in good spirits and friendship.

Master, George Anderson

Messages from The Clerk

Dear Loriner,

Company News:

September has followed a similar pattern to August, with a number of unique events being organised by members of the Company. These have included a day out in a carriage (with picnic) around historical Woburn Abbey, the chance to have lunch and watch some great polo at Guards Polo Club and, most recently, a visit and lunch at the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

It is hoped that some of these events will be repeated next year and the Livery Committee has already started planning for these and more for 2025. I hope you enjoy reading about these in the newsletter.

Looking forward, we have the Autumn Court Dinner at Saddlers’ Hall in October, with the guest speaker being Mrs Suzie Fletcher from the Repair Shop. This event is now sold out with a waiting list and I am very happy to add anyone to it. We then have the Carol Service in December. The plan will be similar to last year, with carols at St Lawence Jewry and a reception at the Guildhall. We will use the reception afterwards to present the Company Awards, which would usually have been awarded at our Summer Court Lunch.

Thereafter, a bit of a break until the 2025 Installation Dinner, which will remain at Vintners’ Hall.

Wider News:

There is one bit of wider news this month from the Lord Mayor:

Mansion House will be hosting a Gala Dinner next Spring to raise funds for Treloar’s. As you may know, Treloar’s is a non-maintained residential and day specialist school and college for disabled children and young people up to the age of 25. The charity provides not only an education but also the tools needed to foster independence, confidence, and opportunity.

Communications committee - October 2024