The Coachmakers recognises Head Coachman for the Royal Mews at Smith’s Lawn

On a magnificent Sunday in June, when it was hotter in Windsor than Benidorm, Coachmakers and their partners experienced a superb day of carriage driving at the British Driving Society Annual Show at Smith’s Lawn, Windsor.

The Coachmakers were represented by Senior Warden Mark Broadbent, Master-elect in our forthcoming 350th year, Past Master Michael Kimber and Immediate Past Master Stephen Fitz-Gerald.

We were also joined by Colonel Sir Toby Browne KCVO, the late HM The Queen’s Crown Equerry or ‘Silver Stick’ and his wife Lady Serena, who judged the Concourse d’Elegance.

We were based adjacent to the Duke of Edinburgh Ring where we met with members of the Wheelwrights’ Livery Company, forming a strong bond of horse-focused Livery Companies.

This year the Coachmakers’ Carriage Driving Award was presented to Matt Powers RVM, retiring Head Coachman for the Royal Mews. Matt was raised in Lincolnshire and has always been involved with heavy horses. He wanted to join the Household Cavalry but broke a leg just before basic training in a riding accident, completing the interview on crutches, and was subsequently recommended for the Royal Mews.

He moved to Windsor and was soon asked to train the Duke Of Edinburgh’s fell ponies and began travelling with him and his team. After several visits to Balmoral and Sandringham HM Queen Elizabeth II asked him to be her Head Coachman. He was posted on her last Trooping of the Colour and HM The King’s first. He was in command of the Gold Coach at the King’s Coronation and was involved with Prince Harry’s Wedding.

The presentation by Senior Warden Mark Broadbent took place in the Duke of Edinburgh Ring. PM Michael Kimber then continued to delight the crowds, taking over as compere, demonstrating his considerable technical knowledge of the carriages, interspersed with humorous asides.

The carriages then drove around the Windsor Estate with marvellous views of Windsor Castle down the Long Mile.

Proceedings were brought to a close at 5pm when the prizes were presented by Sir Toby Browne from the Queen’s Box.