Hitting the right notes

With its origins dating back to 1215, the Lord Mayor’s Show has been the City of London’s most spectacular annual celebration for eight centuries. But in a very special departure from tradition for 2025, the procession was renamed the Lady Mayor’s Show – in honour of only the third woman to take on the role, and the first to be officially known as ‘Lady Mayor of London’, Dame Susan Langley.

Sea Cadets was incredibly proud to help welcome Dame Susan as the 697th elected Head of the City of London – a post that is crucial to the prosperity of London and its communities. And with a chance to be part of history in the making, 150 cadets and volunteers from London Area and beyond were even more thrilled than usual to be joining the 7,000-strong parade. As always, the London Area Band – joined by several ‘bandies’ from other areas – put on a fantastic performance, having been expertly prepared by Lt Cdr (SCC) Ian Turner RNR, who has been the driving force behind the band since 2015. 

These young musicians really rose to the occasion, and one of those who travelled in to help was Petty Officer Cadet Gracie of Poole Unit. “Playing Royal Salute was so satisfying,” she said. “It’s a five-minute tune with really high and fiddly bits on the clarinet so I’m really proud that I didn’t squeak or make an obnoxious wrong note!” Royal Marines Cadet Imy of Greenwich Unit also enjoyed a day to remember. “One of our pieces is called Mechanised Infantry – it’s got probably one of the hardest solos in our library, but I’m really proud of myself because I managed to do the whole thing with no mistakes today!” 

“Music has been an integral part of my life. It has
the power to change your mood, your thoughts,
and obviously it’s just the best part of a parade –
a parade is nothing without music”

Cadet Corporal George, Tooting Unit

The procession provides a great opportunity to engage with thousands of spectators, as well as key Sea Cadets supporters and partners such as YOU London and the historic Livery Companies. But the sheer range of floats, carriages and performers taking part can create some challenges – particularly as the parade is famous for being unrehearsed. “One thing you really notice with the Lord Mayor’s Show is that all the different floats go at different paces, and it’s my job to make sure that we’re constantly moving and we don’t stop at all,” explained Isabella, reflecting on the responsibility of her role. “Because the drummers all base their signals off mine, if I mess up, then everyone else messes up – and that’s not a good look!” 

While Isabella ensured the band made perfect progress, the three-mile route from Mansion House – past St Paul’s and the Royal Courts of Justice and back again – was a major test of stamina for cadets and volunteers alike. “We have to fuel up in the morning, most definitely – that’s a big thing,” said Cadet Corporal George of Tooting Unit. “It’s important not to zone out; we just focus on keeping the body moving to keep the blood flowing and try to stay alert.”

In addition to a superb performance from the band, the main marching platoon put on a magnificent show of disciplined parading. Meanwhile, the crowd was delighted by the sheer enthusiasm of the juniors (below right) – whether supporting other floats or accompanying our kind sponsors from the Worshipful Company of Management Consultants. The impeccable smartness and bearing of Lima Company Royal Marines Cadets also drew much praise at St Paul’s Cathedral, where they lined the route with distinction. 

Full of pride and elated after a very successful event, all the cadets were grateful for the tireless efforts of the volunteers who had supported and prepared them so well. “The communication and teamwork from all the cadets and staff has been a highlight,” confirmed Able Cadet Ivy of Maldon Unit. “Seeing so many people here, and a lot of cadets I haven’t seen in a while, it’s been really nice,” concluded her unit colleague AC Ava, perfectly summing up the unifying spirit of a truly unique day.

Photos: Sea Cadets