Newsletter - February 2025

I was honoured and delighted to be installed as the Master of our Worshipful Company on Thursday 30th January 2025. As is customary, the Installation Court was held at Vintners’ Hall. My first and very pleasant duty was to install Mr John Morton as Upper Warden and Mr Nick Athienitis as Under Warden. I very much look forward to working with them, the Court and all members of our Company as well, of course, with our Gallant Clerk, Colonel Crispin Lockhart.

The Installation Dinner followed the Court meeting and was attended by more than 140 Liverymen, Freemen and their guests. The atmosphere was joyous and we were entertained by our guest speaker, Mr Ian Dyson QPM DL, who shared his experiences as Commissioner of the City of London Police, as well as his notorious outing on (and off!) a horse in the Lord Mayor’s Show.

It was also my privilege to welcome our new Liverymen and new Freemen who joined the Company. As I said in my Master’s speech and I reiterate now: "There are many of you and this is where I turn to my theme of ‘responsibility’. It is a cliché to say that our new members are the future of our ancient and Worshipful Company. But, it is also, I believe, our collective responsibility to ensure that we do all we can to see that the Loriners thrive for at least the next 764 years. Our finances are not strong enough, although through the immense efforts of our Gallant Clerk and several members of the Court, we are much better placed than previously. In short, we still need new members.

'I am not a natural salesman. But, please consider this. We have about 70 members of the Company attending the Installation Dinner. If each of us were to introduce just one new member this year and next, we would regain a position of financial sustainability. That is my goal and that is what I see as my personal responsibility for my time as your Master. Please help me to achieve this goal."

My wife Sarah and I have been married for 32 years and our three sons are Liverymen. Indeed, nine members of our family have joined the Company and I hope that won’t be the end of the line!

The Company calendar is filling up with a variety of formal and informal events and I very much hope you will be able to join some, if not most of them. A key date for your diaries is our Mansion House Banquet, which will be attended by the Lord Mayor and the Sheriffs on Thursday 15th May. All members of the Company, along with their family and friends are most welcome.

Nick Bensted-Smith, Master 2025/26

Celebrating the Installation of our new Master at Vintners' Hall 

The Worshipful Company of Loriners' Installation Dinner was held at Vintners' Hall on Thursday 30th January. It was a delightful evening, filled with the traditions one would expect at such an event. As outlined above, the gathering included a healthy number of Freemen, Liverymen and their guests. It was exciting that there were five new Freemen and six new Liverymen in attendance.

Of course, celebrating the Installation of Mr Nicholas Bensted-Smith was the focus of the evening and he thanked Dr George Anderson for all that has been achieved this past year under his Mastership, wonderfully supported by his wife Ann. The speech by the Master’s guest, Mr Ian Dyson QPM DL, was both entertaining and informative and even included sound advice on how to avoid online fraud, something that anyone can be caught up in.

With delicious mackerel followed by sumptuous slow cooked lamb, accompanied by expertly chosen wines, a feast was had by all. Judging by the lingering conversations at the end, people would have been happy to continue mingling for quite a while longer. With such a joyful evening, let’s wish the new Master and Mistress a happy and successful year. Please note, once the official photos are ready, you will be able to view and download them here.  

Assistant to the Clerk, Georgy Armitage 

Freemen of the Loriners gain their Freedom of the City 

After a delicious lunch at the Little Ship Club, six Freemen of the Worshipful Company of Loriners and their guests attended a joint Freedom of the City of London Ceremony at The Guildhall. The ceremony was carried out in accordance with centuries' old custom, coupled with the opportunity to explore the Museum of Artefacts, all of which made for a memorable afternoon.

IPM Mr Colin Gurley and the Gallant Clerk Col Crispin Lockhart supported the new Freemen, adding to the occasion. Those who became Freemen of the City on this day are (L-R): Mr Randhir Natt, Mrs Alice Page, IPM Mr Colin Gurley, Miss Olivia Turner, Wg Cmdr Alec Hurley, Ms Helen Williams, Lt Col Tom Armitage. Congratulations to all of you!

Assistant to the Clerk, Georgy Armitage

Loriners' Annual Carol Service and Awards Ceremony

On 10th December, The Worshipful Company of Loriners hosted its Carol Service at the beautiful church of St. Lawrence Jewry, next to Guildhall.

Past Master George Anderson, was delighted to welcome some 70 Loriners and guests to this special occasion, which was followed by a wonderful reception at Guildhall itself.

The evening also featured our annual Awards Ceremony, celebrating excellence and dedication across the year. Prizes were awarded to deserving Service Personnel from HMS Agamemnon, The Household Cavalry Regiment, The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery and No.1 Sqn, RAF Regiment. Prize winners from Capel Manor College were also present, showcasing the talents of the next generation.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 'Master’s Award', which this year went to Mrs. Gillian Sainsbury in recognition of her dedication to and support for the Loriners. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this festive and celebratory event!

Liveryman and Social Media Lead, Bogdan Zaha

Loriner Focus

This month, we are pleased to introduce Michael Bacon, who is Managing Director of Channel Equine & Rural Business Consultancy and who was enclothed as a Liveryman last Autumn. 

"Working in the equestrian industry for many years, I had always been aware of the historical role of the Worshipful Company of Loriners and its work of supporting good causes and charities. However, I never regarded it as an organisation involved in the modern equine industry and, therefore, one of which I could become a member. I had always thought, like many others, that unless you had worked in the City of London or had a family connection, you could not join a Livery Company.

'How wrong I was! Indeed, in the short time I have had the privilege of being a member of the Company, I have met a truly wonderful mix of Loriners from all backgrounds and have been warmly welcomed. I have also come to realise how hard the Company works in promoting horse welfare and education, as well as supporting the Lorinery trade and the wider equestrian industry.  

'I grew up in the west country and before even leaving school, I decided I wanted to join the Army. After seeing the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment perform the Musical Ride at the Devon County Show and believing every word of the recruiting team about the exciting life and riches that awaited me on joining the Household Cavalry, I knew there was only one regiment I wanted to be with. Not only that, but at the age of 17, I would have a Knightsbridge address, sit on a horse in Whitehall in state kit looking the business, parachute out of aircraft, drive tanks, see the world and get paid to do it. I joined the Life Guards, one of the two regiments of the Household Cavalry and (apologies to our Clerk) ‘The smart one of the two regiments’.

'I had a fantastic five years in the Household Cavalry. Although I didn’t do any parachuting and and my view of the world was limited, I was posted to the remount depot at Melton Mowbray and Summer Camp in Thetford, where I did get to sit on that horse in a smart uniform and live only four stops on the Piccadilly line from the West End. As a young man, it was great fun. Most importantly though, those five years set in stone my lifelong association with horses and their welfare. 

'In 1992, I left the Life Guards and joined a farmer-controlled business based in East Essex. The business was pioneering new ways of manufacturing horse feed, growing its own raw materials and leading the way in equine nutrition and research. I was their first sales person for the North of England and Scotland. After training in every department, working on the harvest, in the factory and warehouse and being the Head Nutritionist's Dog’s Body, I was told to get in the hand-me-down and prone-to-breaking-down Peugeot 305 with half a million miles on the clock and head North to sell some horse feed - “and don’t come back until you’ve sold 100 tonnes”. 

'Over the next 30 years I worked for three of the leading equestrian brands, taking on more senior roles that required me to lead sales, marketing and nutrition teams.

'I became involved in all aspects of the companies I worked for, from production, transport, health and safety and HR to new products, packaging, advertising and websites. I also worked with partners and customers in North America, Europe and the Middle East.

'When looking at my career, two achievements stand out: The first, after a lot of hard work, trials and negotiations, was landing the business to supply the Household Cavalry and The Kings Troop RHA with their own range of feeds; 'Horse Guards Mix', 'Troop Mix' and the catchily-named 'Working Army Horse' cubes. I really had gone full circle to where my career had started. The second was being appointed Director of the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA), sitting on the Council and a number of sub committees and helping to support the wider equestrian industry. 

'At the start of the Pandemic in 2020, I moved from north Yorkshire to south Kent. As a senior member of the company I worked for, I was allowed on to the site to oversee production and sales. I also wanted to be close to my soon to be wife, Debbie. In late 2021, I set up my own specialist consultancy business. I wanted to help rural and equine businesses in the UK, Europe and US to grow and prosper in an industry that I know and love, with practical help, advice and management experience.

'Today, whilst running Channel Equine & Rural, I also support Debbie’s business, Southern Equestrian; a thriving traditional tack shop and feed merchant that she’s run for more than 23 years. The shop is located close to the channel ports and tunnel and we have a fantastic mix of local and international customers, as well as supply horse owners of all types. 

'Since becoming a member of the Loriners, I’ve had the privilege of joining the Education Committee and being appointed as Steward to the British Equestrian Trade Association.

'Would I recommend becoming a member of the Worshipful Company of Loriners? 100% yes! I believe that, with such a fantastic mix of Loriners from so many backgrounds and with our commitment to the trade of Lorinery and equine education and welfare, people with an active role in the equestrian industry have a lot to give. It is also a fantastic opportunity to meet people from all walks of life and be part of a relevant and vibrant organisation that, quite proudly, has a long heritage of being a key part of the equestrian industry and supporting equine charities and good causes". 

Liveryman, Michael C M Bacon

Visit to the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery

On 13th December, members of the Worshipful Company of Loriners enjoyed a memorable and insightful visit to the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery (KTRHA) in Woolwich. It has been wonderful in recent years to maintain and strengthen the connection between the Loriners and this iconic regiment and this visit was yet another highlight in our long-standing relationship.

The day commenced at 10.30am with tea and coffee served in the History Room, generously funded by the Loriners as part of the Company’s 750th anniversary celebrations. This warm and convivial start set the tone for a day filled with discovery and fellowship.

Following refreshments, we were treated to an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the King’s Troop’s facilities. Members had the rare opportunity to examine close up the regiment’s special ceremonial guns and visit the horses in the impressive King George VI Lines.

The tour also included visits to the workshops, saddlery, tailoring and forge, where we observed the exceptional craftsmanship that goes into supporting the Troop’s operations. A particular highlight of the day was the tour of the Saddlers’ Store, where we gained fascinating insights into how the Troop’s tack and other equipment are meticulously crafted and maintained to exacting standards.

Adding to the excitement of the day was the Loriners’ Company Jumping event. We were able to watch the thrilling proceedings and witness Past Master George Anderson presenting prizes to the talented competitors at the end.

The visit provided a unique blend of history, craftsmanship and equestrian excellence, furthering the Loriners’ appreciation of the dedication and skill within the King’s Troop. The day concluded at 3pm, leaving all attendees with a deep sense of admiration for the regiment and its traditions.This special visit was a fitting tribute and testament to the enduring ties between the Company and the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery.

Liveryman and Social Media Lead, Bogdan Zaha

Cementing Relationships at The Worshipful Company of Plaisterers

On 14th January, Past Master George Anderson was a guest of the Worshipful Company of Plaisterers at their hall on London Wall. The occasion was the 'Dinner for Masters and Clerks of the City Livery Companies'. A very generous gesture from the Plaisterers, with about 75 Masters present and about 270 diners in all. 

No one is sure how the 'I' got into 'Plaisterers'. But, it appeared in medieval times and was sometimes accompanied by the term 'Maister and Court of the Plaisterers'. An enjoyable and convivial evening was had by all. 

Past Master, George Anderson

Coachmakers' and Coach Harness Makers’ Lunch at Armourers’ Hall

On 23rd January, Past Master George Anderson attended the Coachmakers' and Coach Harness Makers’ Lunch at Armourers’ Hall. Several other Masters of the 'Leathery Livery Companies' were also invited and a pleasant time was had by all. 

It is wonderful how the Coachmakers have moved the concept of making just coaches to include anything which can be ‘coach built’. This of course includes, cars, trains, buses and planes. A very astute way of modernising their company. 

Past Master, George Anderson

Past Master and Gallant Clerk attend the Worshipful Company of Founders' January Court Dinner

On 27th January, Past Master George Anderson and Gallant Clerk Crispin Lockhart were guests of the Founders' Company at their hall in Cloth Market. The occasion was to mark the Founders' Company January Court Dinner.

The Founders' Company was formed in 1365, when a petition was made in Norman French to the Lord Mayor and Aldermen for its Ordinances to be enrolled at Guildhall. The petition was granted and John De Lincoln became its first Master.

The Company's first hall (out of four) was built in Lothbury in 1547, with one of its first tenants being the East India Company. In 1614, the Company was granted its Royal Charter by King James I. In 1858, The Great Bell (Big Ben) was cast for the Houses of Parliament at the Whitechapel Bell Foundry.

When the Master was doing his pre-clinical training at Bart’s Medical School in Charterhouse Square, the Company's hall at that time was, unfortunately, a Second World War bomb site. In 1987, the fourth and current hall was built in Cloth Fair in Farringdon, just behind the church of St Bartholomew the Greater. Today, it is one of the City's smallest halls, seating just 60 people! 

Across the road is the Old Red Cow public house, which used to open at 7.00am 'for the refreshment of persons working at the Smithfield Meat Market'. Happy days! 

Past Master, George Anderson

Messages from The Clerk

Dear Loriner,

Installation Court

We now have a new Master about whom you will have read earlier in this newsletter. The Installation Court had a very full agenda, with continued healthy numbers being both admitted and enclothed with the Livery. We had five new members admitted as Freemen to the Company and they were:

Mrs Clare Valori – until fairly recently, Clare was Vice Chairman of the Pony Club

Mrs Charlotte Warman – as well as owning an Equestrian Centre, Charlotte is a trained bit fitter

Mr Jack Day – an equine vet

Mr Monty Stuart Monteith - finds innovative products for the equestrian trade as well as being a former Chairman of BETA

Mr Scott Jones – joins through Fellowship 

I hope that we will be able to provide a Loriner Focus piece on some of our new members in the near future.

The Court also saw six Freemen being enclothed with the Livery. The final part of the Installation saw Mr John Morton become the Upper Warden and Mr Nick Athienitis become the Under Warden.

Recruitment 

Of note in the wider agenda, the Court received a recruiting update from the Immediate Past Master. In 2024, he briefed that we admitted 17 new members which was five above target, which is fantastic news.

So far this year, we have already admitted five and know of three more who, subject to interview, will join. This means we need only four more to hit our immediate target and seven to reach our stretch target. In other words, we only need 2% of the Company to achieve one admission this year to meet our targets. Please do all you can to support this recruiting campaign. New members are the lifeblood of the Company.

Additionally, I would like to remind all Loriners that, last year, the Court agreed to introduce an offer to encourage younger members to join. As of 1st January 2025, anyone under 35 years old on the day of joining will only be required to pay half of the fine. Furthermore, this payment can be spread over the year and can be paid quarterly. There will be no change to the Quarterage charge, which will be the same applied to all those who currently pay.

We are looking to introduce this incentive with a specific event to which potential members will be invited and we also hope to collectively invite the Guild of Young Freemen. Please look out for further details in due course. Any immediate queries should be addressed to the clerk@loriner.co.uk.

Looking Forward...

We now look forward to the Annual Banquet at Mansion House in May, which is the next Company event given that there will not be a Spring Court Lunch. Thereafter, the Summer Lunch is in July at Barber Surgeons’ Hall and, finally, the Autumn Court is in October at Goldsmiths’ Hall (exact date to be confirmed). The other ‘smaller’ events will be on the calendar on the Loriner Webpage.

Calling all Golfers!

Throughout the golfing season, there are golfing events organised by fellow Livery Companies, where we are invited to play or enter a team. There has also been a Loriners’ Golf Day, which was not held in 2024 because there were not enough entries to justify it. Whilst most events are set up as a competition, the ability level is mixed and enjoying the day is, for most, the key element.

Bridge Enthusiasts

An Inter-Livery Bridge Competition is being held on Monday 3rd March 2025 at Drapers’ Hall, Throgmorton Street, London EC2N 2AN with the Reception at 5.00pm and first session 5:30pm. Carriages at 10:30pm latest.

This is a friendly competition and players of all standards are welcome. We particularly welcome ‘kitchen bridge’ players who would like to try their hand at duplicate bridge in a relaxing atmosphere. There will be various trophies, crystal glasses and unique WCMPC playing cards to be won too! The lead player needs to be a member of the Company but their partner does not.

The charge for entering the competition will be £210 per pair, which includes teas and coffees on arrival, entry into the tournament, a donation to the Lord Mayor's Appeal and a two course dinner with wines, coffee and chocolates.

Padel Players

The Worshipful Company of Saddlers' 2nd Inter-Livery Padel Competition is to be held at The National Tennis Centre, Roehampton SW15 5JQ in May 2025. The day will start at 9.45am and finish at about 9pm.

Communications Committee - February 2025