A letter from the Editor – January 2026

Dear readers,

Welcome to the January edition of Coachlines. As ever, the start of the year brings a sense of fresh energy, and this issue reflects both the strong foundations of the Company and the many activities ahead.

In his Master’s Message, our Master Richard Charlesworth MVO, lifts the curtain on how the Company’s main Committees work and how they fit together. It is a clear and reassuring insight into the machinery that keeps the Coachmakers running smoothly behind the scenes and a timely reminder of the commitment shown by so many members who quietly give their time and expertise so willingly.

One of the real pleasures of Company life continues to be welcoming new members. Hearing what has brought them to the Coachmakers and seeing the enthusiasm they bring is always uplifting – and a reminder that our Company remains very much alive and moving forward.

Many of you will already have taken part in the membership survey sent out ahead of the introduction of the new CRM system. Thank you to everyone who has responded. The level of engagement is greatly appreciated, and your feedback will help ensure that the system genuinely improves how we communicate and connect as a Company.

There is also plenty to look forward to in the events calendar. A wide range of activities has been organised, offering something for everyone, whether your interest is social, technical or historical. A standout date will be the return of the Bluebird K7, which will run on Coniston Water this May – a truly special occasion and one not to be missed. If this is on your list, do book early when the email arrives in your inbox.

This issue also features a fascinating piece from the Secretary of the Communications Committee, Liveryman Mark Jurd, who turns his attention to Long Acre – today a busy, one-way shopping street in the heart of Covent Garden. It is easy to walk along it without a second glance, yet look up and the clues are all there. For more than two centuries, Long Acre was Britain’s “carriage capital”, a centre of innovation, skilled craftsmanship and industrial ambition that helped shape national transport standards before adapting to the motor age. It is a wonderful reminder of how closely the story of our trade is woven into the streets of London.

Finally, it is encouraging to see the Company attracting interest well beyond our own membership. The American, a magazine aimed at expatriates living in the UK, invited Honorary Assistant David Barrett to expand on a recent talk about the City Livery movement. The article was published in the January/February issue under the title “David Barrett explains all”, sharing our story with a wider audience.

My thanks go, as always, to everyone who contributes to Coachlines and to the life of the Company. I hope you enjoy this edition and I look forward to seeing many of you at events in the months ahead.

With best wishes,

Your editor, Lyn