A letter from the Editor – March 2025

Let’s make 2025 the year of celebrating excellence and giving back

What a difference one month can make! Master Coachmaker Stephen Fitz-Gerald has shared in his Master’s Message a series of unforgettable events he and other senior members of the Company have taken part in, on behalf of the Coachmakers this month.

We have also hosted a number of events that highlight excellence, camaraderie, and the enduring legacy of the industries we support. Our prestigious Automotive Dinner showcased our longstanding commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent.

One of the most anticipated events of the year will be our Coachmakers’ Charity Fundraising Banquet in June, which takes place at the esteemed Mansion House. This year’s theme, Celebrating the Jet Age, promises an evening of reflection on a pivotal era in history, highlighting the technological advancements and bold spirit of innovation. We encourage all members to attend, as the event will also raise crucial funds to support our charitable initiatives.

Another exciting piece of news is the birth of the Coachmakers’ Car Club. A new chapter in our Company’s long history, this club brings together car enthusiasts, collectors, and industry professionals with a shared love and passion for automotive. It promises to foster a new sense of camaraderie and pride amongst like-minded Liverymen and their families.

Speaking of family, in this edition we have another fascinating story shared by one of the ‘better halves’ of a Coachmaker. Gil Barrett’s heartfelt reflection on the role of support, both professional and personal, reminds us of the values that underpin everything we do and why family is everything to us.

On an organisation level, we remain deeply committed to our student awards’ programme, which has supported young engineers, technicians, and designers for more than 40 years. These awards provide vital financial support to talented young people, many of whom might otherwise have been unable to pursue careers in our industries. However, demand for funding far exceeds what we can currently provide, and this is where we turn to you – our valued partners. We are actively seeking corporate sponsors who can help fund and name new awards. Sponsoring a Coachmakers’ award is a powerful way to invest in the future of the automotive and engineering sectors, ensuring the next generation of talent has the opportunity to thrive.

On an individual level, while we continue to champion excellence in the industries we serve, we are reminded of the importance of giving back to the community that has supported us over the years. Our Master has kindly asked that we make a modest, regular donation to our charitable fund using our GoCardless link. Through this simple act of giving, no matter how small, we are delivering on our promise to provide much needed support to young engineers, technicians, and designers who are the future of the industries we care so deeply about.

Thank you for your generosity and for helping us shape a brighter future.

Warm regards,
From your grateful editor
Lyn