Lord Mayor’s Show

The annual Lord Mayor’s Show took place on Saturday, with crowds lining the City streets to enjoy a procession that stretched more than three miles in length.  

The show followed Friday’s formal appointment of a new Lord Mayor, Alderman David Wootton. Tradition states he must begin his year in the role by pledging allegiance to the Crown at the Royal Courts of Justice, a journey he is escorted on by the City of London Police Commissioner.

It was Commissioner Adrian Leppard’s first appearance at the Show, having joined the force in January. The Commissioner specifically learned to ride so he could take his position leading the mounted escort provided to the Lord Mayor.

Also riding was Chief Superintendent Alex Robertson, who took part in his final show ahead of his retirement after 32 years with the force.

Officers from across the force worked to ensure the safety of the large number of spectators lining the route, while the event was watched by many more as it was broadcast live on BBC One.

A number of protestors took the opportunity to highlight their causes along the procession’s route, and City of London Police officers were on hand to facilitate peaceful protest.

The force was also involved in the procession itself, with officers from the Cycle Squad taking the opportunity to promote safety messages around riding on London’s busy streets.