A letter from the Editor – March 2026

As we move steadily towards our 350th anniversary, this edition of Coachlines captures something rather special about our Company: a living balance between heritage and progress, tradition and innovation, reflection and forward momentum.

It has been, by any measure, a remarkably full and varied month. From international concours events to the quiet precision of heritage craftsmanship, from the grandeur of City ceremonies to the energy of young minds discovering engineering for the first time, the breadth of our activities reflects both the diversity of our membership and the enduring relevance of our mission.

The Master’s travels at the beginning of the month – judging at prestigious automotive gatherings in India and the US – serve as a reminder that our interests and influence extend far beyond the City of London. Yet, on his return, the focus quickly shifted back to the heart of the Livery: Governance, fellowship, and continuity. The introduction of the reformed progression system marks a thoughtful and pragmatic step forward, ensuring that future Masters are not only committed but well-prepared for their time in office. It is a change that reflects a wider theme running through this edition: the importance of adapting long-standing structures to meet modern realities while preserving the spirit that underpins them.

That same spirit was evident in a series of memorable ceremonial occasions – welcoming new members from across the Atlantic, participating in the splendour of the City’s great traditions, and gathering at Mansion House among fellow Liveries. Among these, the United Guilds’ Service at St Paul’s Cathedral stands out as one of the most significant and visually striking moments in the Livery calendar. Held annually on Friday two weeks before Easter, the Cathedral is always filled to capacity, with representatives from across the City’s Livery Companies all assembled in their robes and chains of office.

Growth – both in numbers and in reach – is another defining feature of this period. The Membership Committee reports a particularly successful month, with new Freemen and Liverymen drawn from a wide spectrum of professional backgrounds, industries, and geographies. The inclusion of younger members, including several under 35 and even the sons of existing Liverymen, is especially encouraging. It speaks to a continuity across generations and to the strength of the Coachmakers’ community as one that is both welcoming and forward-looking.

Yet growth is not an end in itself. It is meaningful because of what it enables us to do – most notably, to invest in the next generation. Our continued involvement in the London Careers Festival, alongside events at Brooklands and the Science Museum, demonstrates a clear and practical commitment to addressing the skills gap in engineering and technical professions. The image of young students riveting aluminium panels or competing in hands-on challenges is a powerful one. It reminds us that inspiration often begins with something tangible – a conversation, an activity, a moment of curiosity sparked. These engagements are not only rewarding; they are essential if we are to play our part in shaping the future of our industries.

Underpinning all of this is the vital work of our charitable and fundraising efforts. The Trustees and committees operate with diligence and care, identifying deserving young people and providing them with the support needed to pursue careers in our fields. But as we are reminded, this work depends on sustained and growing resources. The call for greater involvement in fundraising is therefore both timely and important. It is an invitation to all members to contribute – not only financially, but through ideas, networks, and active participation. The strength of our charitable mission lies in collective effort.

Alongside these forward-looking initiatives, there is also space in this edition to reflect on the enduring value of craftsmanship and heritage. The visit to the Morgan Motor Company offers a vivid illustration of this. In an age of automation and rapid technological change, the continued use of traditional coachbuilding techniques – ash frames shaped by hand, processes refined over decades – serves as a powerful reminder that innovation does not always mean abandoning the past. Sometimes, it is about preserving and integrating it. The story of Morgan’s resilience, even in the face of advice to modernise radically, resonates strongly with the identity of the Coachmakers: rooted in history, yet entirely relevant today.

This interplay between past and present is echoed in our exploration of the City itself. The account of the Old Bailey opens a window into one of London’s most iconic institutions, revealing not only its history but its continuing role in public life. The unique relationship between the Court and the City of London Corporation, the traditions surrounding the Sheriffs, and the human dimension of judicial life all serve to deepen our appreciation of the environment in which we operate. It is a reminder that the City is not merely a backdrop to our activities, but an integral part of our story.

Not to mention the cultural reflections in the Clerk’s Notes – most notably the look back at the film Top Gun – connect in unexpected ways to our shared values. Beyond its cinematic spectacle, the film’s themes of ambition, discipline, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence mirror qualities that resonate within our own community. Its celebration of engineering, performance, and human skill aligns closely with the industries we represent. In this sense, it is more than nostalgia; it is a reflection on what inspires individuals to push boundaries and strive for mastery.

As we look ahead, there is much to anticipate. Our programme of events – from formal dinners to the forthcoming Annual Charity Fundraising Banquet – offers numerous opportunities to come together, strengthen connections, and celebrate what we do. The continued enthusiasm and support of members in attending these occasions is not taken for granted; it is, in many ways, the lifeblood of the Livery.

If there is a single thread that runs through this edition, it is participation. Whether through attending events, supporting fundraising efforts, engaging with young people, or encouraging new members to join, the message is clear: the vitality of the Coachmakers depends on the active involvement of its members. Ours is not a passive institution; it is a community shaped by the energy, commitment, and generosity of those within it.

As we approach our 350th year, that sense of shared endeavour becomes even more significant. We are custodians of a remarkable legacy – but we are also its authors for the future. The work we do now, the people we welcome, and the initiatives we support will define the next chapter of the Coachmakers’ history.

Your Editor
Lyn