Newsletter - September 2024
Welcome to this month's edition of our newsletter. As it is the middle of summer it has been a quieter month than usual. However, you will see the accounts of the two biggest meetings I attended this month; the Pony Club Polo and the Pony Club Championships. These are attended by many hundreds of young riders and are extremely popular with the riders and their parents. Such enthusiasm is very welcome and they are always grateful for our support.
Included in this newsletter are three contributions from Freemen of the Company, as well as news from a proud uncle, Liveryman Stuart Palmer, of his niece's success at the Trailblazers Championships. Well done Summer Willows! Stories from further afield are always welcome - please keep them coming.
I would like to thank all the members of the Communications Committee for putting together this edition of the newsletter. I would especially want to mention Bogdan Zaha, our Social Media Lead, who was married last week. Many congratulations to you both. The Mistress and I also celebrated our 55th wedding anniversary last week, so you have a little way to go!
My best wishes to everyone and I look forward to seeing you at the Autumn Court Dinner.
George Anderson
Master 2024
Loriners Enjoy Informal Lunch in London
The Loriners gathered for an informal lunch on Tuesday 30th July at Coq d'Argent, a French restaurant located in the heart of the City of London with a beautiful rooftop setting.
As much as it was a stunning setting for lunch, the major significance was that we were sitting five floors above the old site of Loriners Trade in the 11th-13th centuries.
The event brought together around 25 Loriners and guests, all eager to enjoy a relaxed afternoon of good food and conversation. The group was split across several tables to accommodate the impressive turnout, and our lively discussions added to the buzzy 5th floor atmosphere. The restaurant’s impressive menu met every expectation, featuring French-inspired dishes, which were thoroughly enjoyed by all.
It was a wonderfully informal and enjoyable lunch, perfectly suited to the spirit of the Loriners and huge thanks go to Loriner Gill Sainsbury and our Gallant Clerk Crispin Lockhart, who organised such a fantastic event.
Freeman, Hugh Williams
In Focus - with Olivia Turner
In this edition, Freeman Olivia Turner, who is an Animal Behaviourist working primarily with horses and dogs, has kindly given us an insight into her connections with the equine world and thoughts as a future Liveryman of the Loriners.
"In 2021, Carla Humphries invited me to my first Banquet Dinner at Mansion House, which was absolutely spectacular. I knew I wanted to be a part of the company, particularly as my career with horses is in Lorinery. I felt very privileged to be proposed in by Tricia Nassau-Williams earlier this year and I'm excited to be adding to the company with my skills in the equine field.
'As an Animal Behaviourist, I work primarily with horses and dogs, where I help solve behavioural issues. My interest in bitting came after working with a number of horses presenting ridden issues that were caused by ill fitting tack. Lorinery science was something unheard of at that time, yet the bit is an important component between the horse and rider.
'I studied to become a qualified bit and bridle fitter and have been working as a Bitting Specialist for five years. I've seen hundreds of horses now for bitting sessions, where I watch the horse being ridden in its current tack set up and analyse the issues relating to the bit. Then I'll try different bits with the horse and rider to find the perfect one for them as a pair. I carry a vast range of bits and travel across the UK seeing riders that need bitting help and also deliver talks and lectures to different clubs and academic institutions.
'I've attended three Banquet Dinners at Mansion House; my first was in 2021 by invitation from Carla Humphries. I was admitted as a Freeman at the Spring Lunch in April this year and am to gain my Freedom of the City soon. I also went to the informal lunch in London at the end of July and will be attending the carriage ride through Woburn in early September.
'I've enjoyed everything the Loriners have had to offer so far. It's been wonderful meeting so many people and making new connections. I feel there's so much to gain from membership, particularly if you're already in the equine industry.
'I'm very keen to see my partner Jack become a member! He is a Veterinary Surgeon with Rossdales in Newmarket and works primarily with horses in training and competition horses. I've learned so much from him that has helped me in my line of work and he's been incredibly supportive of my career. I am sure he would bring another element of equine knowledge and expertise to the table."
Freeman, Olivia Turner
A Trailblazer in the Making
Many of you will have seen on the Loriners' WhatsApp group chat a photo I recently posted of my niece taking part in a showjumping competition and I was asked by the Communications Committee to provide the details behind the story.
My niece is Summer Willows, she is 12 years old and she has been riding for five years now. The competition was the Trailblazers Championships, which is sponsored by Cavaltti Saddles and held in Buckinghamshire from 1st - 5th August. Summer and her pony, Celtic River, entered the 60cm and 70cm classes of the Cavaletti Saddles Junior Trailblazers Championship.
She came third in the 70cm class and won both stages of the 60cm class, making her the overall champion and winner of the Hargate Perpetual Trophy.
It was actually Summer's first time participating in these championships, which give unaffiliated riders an opportunity to compete in Dressage, Show Jumping and Combined Training. Needless to say, Summer was over the moon with her results.
Liveryman, Stuart Palmer
Enthusiasm, Energy and Excitement at the Pony Club Polo Championships
On Sunday 11th August, in beautiful sunlight with a welcome cooling breeze, the Master and Mistress attended the Pony Club Polo Championship Finals at Cowdray Park Polo Club in Sussex.
Supported by Steward Alexandra Maule and her husband Hugh, they were welcomed by Brigadier Justin Stanhope-White, Pony Club Polo Chair, as well as Pony Club Regional Leaders.
This event brings together the most successful Pony Club Polo teams after many earlier rounds of the championships, this year involving 62 teams and 248 children. Cowdray Park is a stunning setting and gives these young players the reward of playing polo on top quality lawns.
The Loriners' Division gives young players an opportunity to play one pony polo; they can remain in this division until they are 21 or, alternatively, move on to multi-chukka polo. After watching a number of matches and enjoying a lunch in the company of many of the event’s volunteers and leaders, the Master presented the Loriner/Rendell Cup and prizes to the Loriners' Division.
The standard of play was very impressive. Not only that, but the enthusiasm and energy displayed were abundant and the continued development of the children was key to this event. The more senior players offered fast and very competitive play, which was exciting to watch and it was also a delight to see all finalists joining a parade around Lawn II, with the backdrop of Cowdray House.
Court Assistant and Steward to the Pony Club, Alexandra Maule
Royal Navy host next leg of the Loriners' Cup
The Master and Mistress were joined by The Upper Warden Nick Bensted-Smith, his wife Sarah, The Steward and Past Master Chris Walton and his wife Helen at the Royal Navy’s leg of the United Kingdom Armed Forces Equestrian Association inter-service competition. This took place on Friday 16th August and was held at The David Broome Event Centre in Chepstow.
The day of the event saw clear skies and bright, warm sunshine. The Loriners were warmly greeted by representatives of the RN. Unfortunately, the RN had to change their team, following a fall by one of the original riders. After introductions and a welcome coffee, the party were escorted to the main arena to watch the competition close up.
Unlike previous years, this event comprised show jumping only. On completion, the scores were assessed and, after some deliberation, the Army were announced the winners, with the RAF second and the RN a creditable third. The Master presented rosettes to all riders and prizes to the winning Army team.
Competitors, guests and support teams then moved to the main base restaurant, where lunch was taken. Captain Sean Moore RN and Chair of the RN Equestrian Association thanked the Loriners for their continued support, which is very much appreciated. Captain Moore then announced his retirement from the RN and, consequently, will be stepping down from his role as Chair. The Master and Steward privately thanked Captain Moore for all his work and support.
The RN also presented Admiral Simon Charlier with a leaving present of a plaque with a horseshoe mounted. Admiral Charlier is stepping down as President of the Royal Navy Equestrian.
After three legs, the standings are: The RAF have won two events and the Army one Everyone is looking forward to the final leg, hosted by the Army at Bury Farm in Bedfordshire on 15th October. Please look out for notices of further details.
Past Master and Steward, Christopher Walton
Riders Compete at Lightning Speed at the Pony Club Championships
On Saturday 17th August, the sun shone once again, this time for the Master and Mistress’ visit to the Pony Club Championships in Offchurch Bury, near Leamington Spa. Accompanied by the Steward for the Pony Club, Alexandra Maule and her husband Hugh, the group was welcomed by Marcus Capel, Chief Executive of the Pony Club and fellow Loriner, as well as the Chair and Vice Chair of the Pony Club and other key volunteers.
Having entered the Main Area through the Pony Club 'Village', where families and horses camp out and stay throughout the two week period of the Championships, we could not fail to be impressed by the scale of the event. It is no surprise that 350 volunteers help to make it a success each year.
After watching the show jumping final, we were guided around the cross country course and over the beautiful and bumpy terrain in golf buggies; learning about the course and the different age groups and standards of the riders. We were also entertained by the Musical Ride, where the children carried out formation riding in costume to a variety of music including 'Greased Lightning' and music by Abba.
The Master and Mistress were also shown the education centre, where Pony Club members were being tested on their knowledge of Pony Care, including an understanding of Lorinery and its importance for the wellbeing of the pony. All this was followed by a delicious lunch in the marquee.
This event is a great example of ways in which our Loriners' Charitable Fund provides a grant to help children access the Pony Club, who would otherwise be unable to participate.
Court Assistant and Steward to the Pony Club, Alexandra Maule
Polo and Prosecco from across the Pond
On 25th August and what was a scorching Sunday with beautiful sunshine, I was fortunate enough to experience the delights of the weekly polo match at Greenwich Polo Club in Connecticut, along with my family. I can only vaguely remember attending a polo match aged 11, so I was very much looking forward to watching the game, this time more attentively, with wonderful company, a picnic and Prosecco.
The match featured two teams: Smithfield and Escape Aviation. The first chukka saw Smithfield take an early lead with a score of 3-2. The tension grew stronger by halftime with Escape Aviation pulling ahead to 7-5. While the wind offered no relief, we made the most of the break by exploring a collection of old trophies and silverware from past polo glories, which were on display.
The final chukka brought the excitement to new heights, culminating in a 11-11 tie, which had us on the edge of our picnic blankets. With just four minutes remaining, Smithfield delivered a final goal, clinching the match with a 12-11 victory.
This was undoubtedly a day to remember, bringing back fond thoughts of the beloved sport, industry and community that we, as a Livery Company, cherish back in England.
Liveryman, Sophie Lloyd
Messages from The Clerk
Another bumper month with lots going on. I hope those who managed to join some of the fascinating events have found them informative and fun. The future ones in September (Woburn Abbey, Guards Polo Club and the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment) are all fully booked, which is great news and we will no doubt hear about them in the next newsletter.
I previously promised to include on key updates from Court meetings. Below is an update from the July Court:
New Freemen:
Three new Freeman were admitted to the Company at the Summer Court. They are:
Mr Theo Athienitis: whilst joining by Redemption, he is the son of Assistant Nick Athienitis
Mr Alec Hurley: A retired medical officer
Mrs Alice Page: A banker. For unforeseen circumstances, she could not make the Spring Court so her admission was postponed to the Summer Court. It is good to see her finally admitted
As there was no Company event after the Summer Court, all three new Freemen will be attending the Autumn Dinner as Guests of the Company.
As you will have seen, we have begun to introduce short write ups on all those who join and I hope that we will see more of these in due course.
Fines and Quarterage:
The 2023 Finance Working Group recommended that fines and quarterage charges should increase in line with inflation. Whilst this is nothing new, there has not been any increase for some time and the Court was briefed on the implications of these rises, which were set at 5%.
All fines and quarterage will therefore rise by 5% with effect from 1st April 2025. All those affected have already been written to, in order that they have prior warning and notification. Of the responses that I received as a result, all were positive and understood the need for this rise. Thank you for the understanding.
This will also affect those joining after 1st April 2025.
All other fines (Master, Warden, Assistant etc) have also risen by 5%.
Codicil:
The Court was also briefed on and accepted that the use of a Codicil would be introduced. I am sure that a number of members will already be well versed in a Codicil to a Will and this will be no different. The aim will be to place the form on the website (with instructions) and to inform all members where it can be located.
Before Parish notices, please can I remind you all of dates for the next two Company events and a very recent change to our Summer Court 2025 date. They are:
Autumn Dinner - October at Saddlers’ Hall. Healthy numbers attending but places remain, so do book in.
Installation Dinner - January 2025 at Vintners’ Hall.
Summer Court Lunch - as a result of a request from the Barbers’ Company, this has been brought forward.
I have attached for you here the Lord Mayor’s bulletin. And finally, as you know, our Company is very active on social media. Currently, our figures show that we have 1416 followers on LinkedIn, 503 on Facebook and 461 on Instagram. It is always good to have more, so please remember to Follow Us, Like our Posts, Comment and Share.
Communications Committee - September 2024