Carmen on parade
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jj he year 1277?
Even the Hawk
can't quite remember that far back. In fact this was the year that the city of London passed its first bylaw controlling carriers: some would say they haven't looked back since. The Worshipful Company of Carmen of London (founded in 1517) recently held its annual Cart Marking Ceremony in the Guildhall Yard. A fleet of 37 vehicles took part, including five which were horse drawn. In a ritual dating back to mediaeval times they duly presented themselves to be branded with a red hot iron. It's not as painful as it sounds: the vehicles were fitted with a wooden board on the side, and the year letter and car number were branded in turns by the Master of the Worshipful Company of Carmen and the Rt Hon The Lord Mayor. A splendid day out was had by all, with not a singed eyebrow in sight.