A letter from the Editor January 2025

As we step into a new year, it is with great pleasure and anticipation that I welcome you to the first edition of our 2025 Coachlines. It is a privilege to serve as your Editor-in-Chief and Chair of the Communications Committee, especially at such an exciting and transformative time for our Company.

The start of a new year invites us to reflect on our shared accomplishments and renew our commitment to the principles that unite us: fellowship, friendship, fundraising and fun. During the past year, we have seen the tangible impact of our collective efforts, particularly through the awards, scholarships, and mentoring programmes that lie at the heart of our charitable endeavours.

Our support for young people pursuing careers in aerospace, automotive and engineering with deep historical ties to our Company has never been more important. Through scholarships, we have enabled talented students to access educational opportunities that might otherwise be beyond their reach. Through mentoring and guidance, we have helped them navigate the challenges of studying STEM subjects, fostering the innovation and leadership that will shape the industries of tomorrow. We are proud to say that our commitment is not only a reflection of our heritage but also a testament to our forward-looking vision as a modern Livery Company.

In this edition of Coachlines, you will find the information about the annual Award to Industry nomination process, the story about a very special coach driving tour, the report of our recent Winter Court Lunch, the ‘Save the Date’ announcement for our 2025 Banquet. We have also introduced our new members so you can learn about those who have joined our Company in the past few months.

There is one particular thing I’d like to highlight. As you know, last year in Coachlines we dedicated 10 editions to a special feature called ‘Meet the Team’. This year, starting from this month, I am launching a new feature – ‘The better halves of the Coachmakers’. This is the Comms Committee’s attempt to add one more ‘F’ to Master’s four Fs, i.e. ‘Family’! Our partners and spouses are the silent yet solid supporters to us and our endeavours. Without them and their participations, we wouldn’t have achieved what we have achieved, nor would we have enjoyed all the activities & events as much as we have enjoyed.

Please allow me to conclude this Editor’s Letter by pointing out the obvious. That is, our strength lies in our shared purpose. Together, we can make 2025 a year of even greater impact. I encourage every one of you to get more involved, whether by volunteering as a mentor, supporting a charitable project, joining a committee, or simply attending some of our events. Thank you for your continued support. I look forward to the stories we will share and the achievements we will celebrate in the months to come.

With best wishes for a happy and prosperous New Year!

Yours
Lyn