The Lord Mayor's Show 2023 Procession

Gog and Magog - The ancient guardians of the City of London have been a feature of this show for centuries. Today’s giant willow figures were made by the Worshipful Company of Basketmakers and are escorted by the Guild of Young Freemen founded by the Corporation to encourage the participation of young Liverymen in the affairs and traditions of the City.

A modern, vibrant and active Livery Company working within a fine tradition.
First formed in 1985, the Worshipful Company of World Traders exists as a body of members in all fields of trading in goods and services, including international financial services.

We have nearly 300 members from diverse professions and backgrounds who come together for social and business events, and to focus on our charitable and educational efforts.

The Company is a membership organisation affiliated with a charitable trust. We proudly provide funding and other support to the education of young people, as well as a range of non-profit organisations.

The Company received its Letters Patent in a ceremony at Mansion House, from the Lord Mayor, Alderman Clive Martin on 25th January 2000 – making it the first Livery Company appointed in the new millennium. Our Royal Charter was granted by Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 2013.

Genoa is a city in the NorthWest of Italy, with almost 600,000 inhabitants and thousands of years of history. It is one of the main ports on the Mediterranean; it has an industrial soul but in recent years has successfully completed a transition giving more room to tourism and its huge cultural heritage.

Image by Dapa19 at Wikimedia

The Mercers’ Company is a livery company focused on being a philanthropic force for good. We have a rich history dating back over 700 years with philanthropy as the common thread between our past, present and future.

The Worshipful Company of Coachmakers and Coach Harness Makers is an active Livery investing in young people, providing sponsorship and support to students and apprentices in the aerospace, automotive and coachbuilding industries.

Our entry incorporates the Earl of Lonsdale’s Park Drag, pulled by four horses. Originally built in 1870 by Barkers of London, one of the best makers of the day, it has been expertly restored to this fabulous condition by Fenix Carriages.

By including this in our entry, we hope to highlight our traditional industry and showcase that the skills and expertise to preserve our history still abound.
A Park Drag was essentially the 19th century equivalent of a large private car and would have been used when entertaining his friends, traveling to parties, picnics and race meetings and social events.

Also known as “the Yellow Earl” he was a great sportsman, and the Lonsdale Belt for boxing was named in his honour. The Park Drag is resplendent in his bright yellow livery, a colour now familiar around the world since, as the first President of the Automobile Association (AA), he granted them the right to use his colours.
The Park Drag is now owned by Master Coachmaker, Bettine Evans, who rides atop with her Consort and the Wardens and Clerk of the Coachmakers. They are accompanied by a grooms, playing traditional coaching calls and tunes.

Walking behind are Liverymen of the Company, in their gowns, along with their guests.

London Freemason’s pledge of £3,000,000 to London’s Air Ambulance Charity will go towards the purchase of 2 new state of the art helicopters or air ambulances. This will enable the publicly funded charity to continue saving lives in London and follows closely after the donation of £2,500,000 for two 64m high super aerial ladder fire appliances for London’s Fire Brigade.
These pledges form part of our ongoing commitment to London's front line services and the community of London. We truly aim to be "Saving Lives Together"

The Lord Mayor’s Ward of Broad Street is one of 25 Wards in the City of London and is first mentioned in the year 1111 during the reign of Henry I. While the Ward is important today, being the home of nine Livery Companies and Guilds as well as being a major international business hub, our history includes Dick Whittington (“thrice Lord Mayor of London”) who was our Alderman from 1393 - 1397. One of our Common Councilmen is Deputy Chris Haywood, Chairman of Policy and Resources at the City of London, the most important position in the City (after the Lord Mayor of course).

Our float is an open-topped Heritage Southdown Bus and is supported by Broad Street Ward Club, of which the Lord Mayor is the President, and the Worshipful Companies of Drapers, Carpenters and International Bankers representing the ancient and modern aspects of the Ward. We will be entertained from the top deck by the Hendo Washboard Kings, a Dixieland jazz band.

The first 70+ Livery Companies to be formed in the City of London, have been promoting their respective crafts and supporting their Lord Mayors ever since the early Middle Ages. Today they are still just as active and relevant to the British economy, providing education and support to the next generation of young trainees and apprentices in their various industries. They also raise funds and donate many millions of pounds to good causes every year.

United Wards Club is one of the oldest and friendliest clubs in the city. A social club with a social and civic purpose.
Rotary in London is a volunteer organisation, its members using their skills and time to improve the lives of others locally and globally.

London Metropolitan University is proud to be one of the most diverse higher education institutions in the country. Dedicated to delivering high-quality teaching and research, it offers a range of courses, and champions social justice, inclusivity and innovative learning. It is committed to transforming the lives of its students through excellent education and to having a positive impact on its local communities.

The five City of London Business Improvement Districts are sponsoring a float for this year’s Lord Mayor’s Show.

BIDs in the capital are a powerful and strategic force for good. From transformational public realm projects, to supporting small businesses and making areas safer, cleaner and more pleasant places to visit or work, BIDs have a proven track record for driving change and innovation.

The five BIDs are EC (Eastern City, the largest BID in the Capital); Cheapside Business Alliance, Fleet Street Quarter, Aldgate Connect and the newest one – Culture Mile.

This is the first time that London Metropolitan Archives is parading.
The London Metropolitan Archives team today, which includes archivists, conservators, digital specialists, is joined by some of the many fabulous volunteers who give up their time to support our work to preserve and share London’s history.
Our design shares some of the key themes from London’s history found in the archives and the van design includes both famous and unknown Londoners from the enormous collection of images available at London Metropolitan Archives.
LMA is an Accredited Archive Service, and the second largest historical archive in the UK.

State Bank of India (SBI) State Bank of India is one of the leading banks in the world and a Fortune 500 company with a legacy of over 200 years. The Bank is proudly serving businesses in UK since 1921. Its UK based subsidiary SBI (UK) Ltd, has 11 retail branches across UK.

London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) is London’s key hub for the business community. We support businesses through a range of services and events, facilitate new business connections and promote ‘Global London’ as the best city in the world to do business.

LCCI is actively supporting Ukrainian refugees. We continue to work with our network to provide valuable business support to SMEs operating in Ukraine and the UK. The LCCI float symbolises our unwavering support for Ukraine. It reflects the unity of our two capital cities, London and Kyiv, and aims to highlight Ukraine's future reconstruction efforts and business reinvigoration.

Guilds in Zurich were craft associations that emerged in the Middle Ages. They regulated common interests and formed a social system with their own signs and costumes. 26 guilds exist to this day. They may no longer have political influence but keep customs and traditions alive. This can be experienced at “Sechseläuten”, a festive event to herald the beginning of spring.

The Modern Livery Companies are those Livery Companies formed since 1929. Although this represents nearly a century, in terms of the Livery, it is the Modern Period. Today you will see representatives (usually the Master and Wardens) of some 30 Modern Companies walking in full Livery, followed by a London Double Decker Bus.

The Lord Mayor’s Appeal (TLMA) exists to tackle the most pressing societal issues in London and beyond and showcase the philanthropy the Square Mile has to offer. The Appeal aims to create a City that is Inclusive, Healthy, Skilled & Fair. TLMA supports partner charities, which this year are National Numeracy and MQ Mental Health Research. On behalf of TLMA the charities are proud to present ‘Knowledge = Power’ - a colourful celebration of the power of education and research to unlock the limitless potential inside every Londoner and create lasting impact for ‘A Better City for All’.

Founded in 2009, Zhejiang UK Association (ZJUKA) promotes close ties between the UK and China, with members drawn from Zhejiang province who live and work in the UK. Zhejiang, with a population of over 55 million, is one of China’s most economically successful provinces, home to Ningbo-Zhoushan, the world’s busiest cargo port; and Yiwu, the world’s largest international wholesale market; and its capital Hangzhou, host of the 2016 G20 Summit. Zhejiang UK Business Association (ZJUKBA) is an affiliate of ZJUKA. ZJUKA has organized events such as: 2017 The City of London Lord Mayor’s Show – “Belt and Road” procession 2017 The UK-China Golden Era New Year Dinner at the House of Parliament; “Culture of China, Taste of Hangzhou” Hangzhou Cuisine International Culture Exchang; Zhejiang and Overseas High-level Talents Conference in London; Hangzhou Global Qipao Festival London near Tower Bridge; Donation drive towards Grenfell Tower Fire Relief； and many more. We are delighted to help connecting people and business between the UK and China.

With our chairman Nicholas Lyons currently serving as the 694th Lord Mayor of London, Phoenix Group is proud to be taking part again in this year’s parade and sharing our float with our charity partner Samaritans. Phoenix Group are the UK’s largest long-term savings and retirement business, with millions of customers across our leading brands which include Standard Life and SunLife. Samaritans are there every day and night for anyone struggling to cope and were chosen as our charity partner by our employees. Our float celebrates our partnership and marks Samaritan’s 70 years of listening. Our float has sustainability at its heart, with volunteers walking and cycling.

“Punjab National Bank (International) Limited (PNBIL) is delighted to be part of the Lord Mayor’s Show. As a UK-based commercial bank and a proud subsidiary of India’s Punjab National Bank (PNB), we’re here to share our story with you. Look out for our spectacular PNB banner, impressive inflatables, and talented stilt-walkers, all showcasing our vibrant identity and everything we can offer you from our range of products and services.

Join in the celebration with our energetic Bhangra dancers and skilled Dhol players, as they bring the rich cultural heritage of India to life. Don’t miss our digital display van, where we’re excited to show you the range of services we offer. Our 10-meter float is also ready, with our enthusiastic employees on hand to connect with you at our branches and answer any questions. Come and discover PNB’s world at the show!”

We are the Livery Company for water and the environment.
• We are a modern Company although our history goes back to the supply of fresh drinking water in the Middle Ages.
• This is the first time for many years that we have a float in the show. We are celebrating as the new Lord Mayor is an honorary member of our Company.
• On the float is our Master Professor Martin Bigg, his Consort Eileen Bigg and members of the Court, Company, friends and supporters. Many from the Company and friends are also walking.
• Our members come from the water and environment sectors, education, regulation and other professions sharing our passion for water and the environment.
• The flying tap on our float reminds us that
o we are very fortunate to have access to fresh, clean drinking water,
o our water and environment are precious and we have to protect them,
o with water there is life and growth and fun.
• We have supported almost 200 students in their university water and environmental studies over 15 years through our Trust and awarded 75 prizes. We have supported schools, communities and museums as well as contributed to Livery good causes.
• We organise lectures and debates on environmental issues. Our recent City Water Debate on the governance of the water industry drew in water companies, regulators, interest groups and academics. Our next Debate is on financing the water industry.
• We have a full social programme as well as meals together and an annual banquet.
• We have an extensive programme for younger members.
• We regularly respond to government invitations and consultations, sharing our knowledge and expertise. We have recently focused on the issues with the water industry including sewer overflows.

Working with Harlesden-based Mahogany Carnival, we showcase the Lord Mayor’s “Connect to Prosper” theme with colourful and eye-catching costumes representing the knowledge and expertise of solicitors and their links to the world-class educational establishments surrounding the City of London. Costumes include Scales of Justice, Legal Eagles, City skylines, Globes & Sparks.

The Port Health and Public Protection Division comprises four service areas.

• The Public Protection teams provide comprehensive and effective environmental health, trading standards and licensing services for the City of London, ensuring that, through monitoring, regulation and enforcement, City residents and businesses can enjoy an environment and services which are, so far as possible, safe and without risks to their health or welfare.

• As London Port Health Authority, the Port Health Service provides imported food control.

• The Animal Health & Welfare service provides the animal health service for Greater London, including the Animal Reception Centre at Heathrow, and undertakes animal establishment licensing for other local authorities.

• The City of London Cemetery and Crematorium in East London provides the community with sympathetic and professional services and facilities.

Today we are highlighting both Port Health and Animal Health.

The CCA Art Bus is a mobile art gallery and a recognised work of art in itself, designed by ‘The Godfather of British Pop Art’ Sir Peter Blake. Flaunting four sides of pop art iconography and classic Blake imagery, this rock ‘n’ roll tour bus visits schools, communities, festivals, galleries, and art events across the country, and regularly features in the annually celebrated Lord Mayor’s Show. This year the CCA Art Bus is joined by the artist for the Lord Mayor’s Show programme and show image, Jim Moir.

London is the world leader ir the global insurance industry.
The Worshipful Company of Insurers is a Livery which is truly passionate about promoting and developing excellence and diversity of talent in our great industry, London Insures the World! Our charitable partner is Skylarks, where children and young people with additional needs can thrive!

Mizuho in London provides expertise in corporate finance, investment banking, asset management, capital markets, and sales and trading. We strive to promote progress and prosperity around the world, partnering with our clients and communities as a catalyst for change. We are proud to walk with Little Village, who support families with children under five living in poverty in London.

ATFX Group is an award-winning FX/CFD broker with a global presence in 15 locations, covering 5 continents, including London, Cyprus, Dubai, Mauritius and Australia. ATFX can provide customer service in over 15 languages.

10th Anniversary of the Belt and Road - Connecting East and West

The year 2023 marks the 10th anniversary of the “Belt and Road Initiative”, The “Belt and Road Initiative” has now evolved into an open and global cooperation platform that transcends geographical limitations, overcomes cultural differences, and integrates development needs. It has made significant contributions to the world economic recovery.
The float incorporates design elements representing the main attributes of the Belt and Road Initiative: “camels, desert, oasis”; “pandas, bamboo”; “Temple of Heaven, St. Paul’s Cathedral”; “lion dance, lanterns, high-speed rail.”
On the float, iconic Chinese architecture, the Temple of Heaven, and the UK’s largest cathedral, St. Paul’s Cathedral, represent elements of Eastern and Western cultures along the prominent trade and cultural route known as the Silk Road. These architectural elements are connected by pandas symbolizing harmony between humans and nature, peace, unity, and the camel representing the connection between Eastern and Western trade and cultural exchange across the desert. This design embodies the aspiration for promoting cooperation and exchange between China and the UK.

We are Theatre Royal Stratford East, a producing theatre in the heart of East London, a short walk from Stratford Station. With Artistic Director, Nadia Fall at the helm, we present a bold programme of reimagined classics, timely revivals, and ground-breaking new theatre.

Our float is made up of Stratford East Staff, members of our young company and, as Stratford East is famous for its Panto each year, we are joined by 4 of our Dames!

City, University of London is the University of business, practice and the professions and is located in the heart of London. Students and staff join the parade to pay tribute to our Rector, the Lord Mayor of London.

The Furniture Makers’ Company is the City of London Livery Company and charity for the furnishing industry. We foster the industry by supporting those in need, inspiring future generations to pursue a career in the sector, and championing excellence in British design and manufacturing by awarding three Guild Marks. The Furniture Makers was founded as a Guild in 1951, granted Livery status in 1963 and incorporated by Royal Charter in 2013.

Lagos State, Nigeria’s financial powerhouse, and EnterpriseNGR, a pivotal force dedicated to advancing the Nigerian Financial and Professional Services (FPS) sector, are etching their names in history as the first African participants in the esteemed Lord Mayor’s Show procession. The invitation extended by the incoming Lord Mayor Professor Michael Mainelli not only signifies a robust endorsement of Lagos State’s unwavering commitment to excellence but also acknowledges its growing economic prominence.

This invitation seamlessly aligns with the joint mission of Lagos State and EnterpriseNGR—to position Lagos as a global economic hub, attracting investments that will fuel sustainable economic development and mutual prosperity.

Recognising that investments are critical catalysts for job creation and sustainable development, Lagos has been steadfast in fostering an investor-friendly environment. This dedication, a continuous journey, is exemplified through initiatives like the recent establishment of the Lagos International Financial Centre (LIFC) Council. The LIFC Council, is a diverse and dynamic team comprising key stakeholders who will oversee the planning, development, and successful establishment of the Lagos International Financial Centre.

Come and witness Lagos State and EnterpriseNGR at the Lord Mayor’s Show! Anticipate a captivating float encapsulating the essence of Lagos City. The centrepiece, a vibrant blue Lagos train, represents the newly commissioned Blue Line Rail services, facilitating over 500,000 daily commutes for Lagosians. Surrounding it are iconic yellow and black ‘Danfo’ buses and ever-present ‘Keke Marwa’ tricycle motorbikes, showcasing the city’s ceaseless commercial dynamism and spirit. The float’s intricate design, featuring 2D panels, reliefs, and cut-outs paying homage to Nigerian banknote elements, is not just a visual spectacle against Lagos’ evolving skyline but an environmentally conscious one powered by inverters, underscoring the State’s commitment to sustainability.

Lagos State and EnterpriseNGR’s participation in the Lord Mayor’s show extends a welcoming hand not only to the UK audience but to the world, delivering a clear message: “Lagos is open for business. Come and invest in Africa’s economic powerhouse.” #InvestLagos #LagosIsOpenForBusiness

The Worshipful Company of Paviors brings together construction industry professionals involved with roads and pavements. It also welcomes others who support the Paviors' objectives. Our float is towed by a 1922 traction engine called Surprise. If you look carefully, you may see some of St Anthony's piglets which our younger Paviors have rounded up!

FM Conway prides itself on being an industry leader with 60 years’ experience and expertise in delivering innovative, sustainable construction solutions.

Our self-delivery capability ensures low carbon and high-quality recycled materials are at the heart of everything we do, to achieve a greener future for our partners, communities and planet.

Promoting the good of the people of the United Kingdom by maintaining monetary and financial stability

This is the first time the Scientific Instrument Makers Livery (WCSIM), UK Accreditations Service (UKAS), the British Standards Institute (BSI) and the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) have collaborated to promote scientific measurement, standards and instrumentation. They have done so in support of the Lord Mayor Michael Mainelli who is himself an enthusiast of scientific endeavour. The float will demonstrate the diversity of those involved in the four organisations as well as wearing white lab coats to promote science whilst carrying large mock-ups of thermometers and rulers, the basis of many measurements.

A small entourage from the 100-strong company of the epic theatrical production, ‘The Mongol Khan’, coming to The London Coliseum from 17th November. The show is the culmination of a series of events marking the 60th anniversary of Anglo-Mongolian diplomatic relations and is the first time a Mongolian theatre company treads British boards. The parade features the play’s director, Hero Baatar, and the two leading actors from the production, as well as other members of the company who have all travelled from Mongolia.

Barts Guild/ The Guild of The Royal Hospital of St. Bartholomew is dedicated to helping Barts patients, staff and visitors. We offer voluntary service through the Hospital Shop and Trolley service to the wards and offer grants to aid a variety of projects. Th Guild have marched in the Lord Mayor's Show for many years. This is year is very special as the Hospital is celebrating its 900th Anniversary. We welcome new members as volunteers or by subscription. To find out more about our work, volunteer, subscribe or make a donation please visit https//www.bartsguild.org.uk.

City Bridge Foundation is one of the oldest charities in the UK, dating back 900 years to 1122. The charity began by maintaining and building London’s bridges, uniting the city and enabling its growth.
The charity is now a world class bridge owner, owing and caring for Tower Bridge and London Bridge, as well as Southwark Bridge, Blackfriars Bridge and the Millennium Bridge. And yet City Bridge Foundation is almost unheard of, even in London.
Originally set up to repair and maintain Old London Bridge, the charity went on to build Tower Bridge, Blackfriars Bridge and Millennium Bridge, and rebuilt both London Bridge and Southwark Bridge.
City Bridge Foundation also awards £30 million a year to charitable causes across Greater London. Since 1995, City Bridge Foundation has supported London’s charitable sector with grants worth more than £760 million.
Guided by its only trustee, the City of London Corporation, the charity is all about ‘Bridging London’ – working to improve the lives of all those who live or work in the capital. For a London where everyone is truly connected.

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London, is the official representation of the Hong Kong SAR Government in the UK. Taking part in the Lord Mayor's Show for the 17th time this year, it presents a specially designed float with dragon dance to showcase Hong Kong's plan to achieve carbon neutrality before 2050. www.hketolondon.gov.hk

Girlguiding in the UK started over 100 years ago. At the heart of the organization is the belief that girls can do anything. Through fun, friendship, challenge and adventure Girlguiding empowers girls to find their voice, inspiring them to discover the best in themselves and to make a positive difference in their community. It is the largest girl-only youth organisation in the UK. This year we are represented by Guides and Rangers from Girlguiding Surrey West county which spreads from Haslemere in the south to Staines in the north and includes Guildford, Woking, Weybridge, Farnham, Esher and Camberley. All participants are in their Girlguiding uniform with a necker that has the Girlguiding Surrey West Lord Mayor’s Show badge on it that has been made for this event. The badge features the Surrey lioness carrying a flag with a silhouette of the city in the background. Our theme is ‘girls can do anything’ and participants are carrying flags with images representing Girlguiding and what girls can do with Girlguiding.

Institute of Couriers express delivery entry to the Lord Mayors Show 2023

A clean air delivery for the Lord Mayor. Brollies for the rain and a Puffin bird delivery to Mansion House.

100 delivery walkers, each and everyone with a special delivery story. Low and zero-emission vehicles are being showcased from quadricycle pedal vans to prototype electric 100-litre scooters. Delivering clean air in the City of London.

The Institute Of Couriers will showcase green delivery to door in the Lord Mayors Show for November 2023 with a theme of clean air for final mile delivery to the door in the City of London. Express courier is the cleanest stream of transport with many gas trucks on trunking networks and a vast array of zero-emission vehicles delivering to the door. A gas-powered truck hauling a trailer platform showcase of multiple brands of zero-emission final mile light vehicles from quadricycle pedal vans to cargo cycles and prototype electric scooters with 100-litre box capacity. Express teams walking the route alongside the float will be dressed in their brands with an IOC brolly just in case it rains! A small puffin graphic on each and every umbrella and yes a bagpiper, James Reid.

Every walker with a delivery story, chosen for a special delivery.

The Worshipful Company of Constructors is a modern City of London Livery Company for professionals working in the construction industry. The Company was granted Livery by The Court of Aldermen in 1990, followed by a Royal Charter of Incorporation by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II in 2010. Many of our Liverymen are Chartered members of their respective professional institutions – some in leading positions. They come from all sectors of the construction trade, including architects, surveyors, engineers, builders, lawyers and accountants. This rich diversity gives huge social and professional benefits to our members.

London Fire Brigade is the busiest fire and rescue service in the country and one of the largest firefighting organisations in the world.The LFB float will include a fire engine driven by some of our firefighters in fire gear and display some of the specialist equipment that we use to keep London safe.

Goodenough College is a unique educational charity, with links to the Mayoralty stretching back to 1931. Dedicated to fostering international understanding and respect and delivering an outstanding programme of intellectual, cultural and social activities, the College provides a warm and welcoming home for talented postgraduate students and their families – from all sorts of backgrounds.

The Worshipful Company of Farmers is delighted to be participating in the 2023 Lord Mayor’s Show, supported by the National Farmers’ Union, Case IH, Red Tractor and Surrey Docks Farm.

This year, our entry demonstrates how Britain’s farmers and growers are ‘Feeding the Nation’ and are proud to produce your food.

We will have two big pieces of agricultural machinery, supplied by CASE IH, with the centrepiece being a huge CASE Quadtrac 620 AFS Connect - one of the most powerful production tractors on the market.

Leading our entry will be Master of the Worshipful of Farmers, Guy Brogden, together with his Senior and Junior Wardens, who will be joined by NFU President Minette Batters, the NFU’s Student and Young Farmer Ambassadors, and representatives from Red Tractor Assurance and Surrey Docks City Farm.

DHL Supply Chain is an essential part of everyday life. We connect our customers to their customers so they can access the products they need - from the day-to-day supermarket groceries to feed families through to essential medicines to improve health. We are committed to attracting, developing and retaining talent; employee engagement; diversity and inclusion; safety and wellbeing and Corporate citizenship.

Approximately 50 dedicated DHL colleagues are participating in the show today, each of whom has gone above and beyond in their respective communities. Whether in the Trucks and Child Safety program, working with local schools to support youth employment or, through various sustainability initiatives, their efforts epitomize our commitment to ‘Connecting People, Improving Lives’.

Tri-Company entry as the new Lord Mayor is a member of all 3. St Dunstan’s College Cadets’ Band (affiliated to the Marketors), a mixed platoon of cadets from St Dunstan’s and the City of London & North-East Sector AFC (affiliated to the Tax Advisers), followed by 6 Bentleys (3 Vintage open, 1928, 1929, 1930 and 3 Saloons 1985, 1997, 2008). All flanked by sign-carriers (6 per Company, total of 9 per side) with messages (and Branding) specific to each Company. Picture is from Marketors entry in 2022 LMS (taken by Dare and Hier).