First Female Lord Mayor of London in 800 Years Celebrated with historic Procession
LONDON – The City of London today marked a historic occasion with a grand procession celebrating the inauguration of Susan Langley, the first female Lord Mayor in the role’s 800-year history. thousands lined the streets as Langley participated in the customary Lord Mayor’s show, a spectacle dating back to 1215.
The event signifies a landmark moment for the City of London, a global financial hub, and underscores a shift towards greater portrayal in its leadership. Langley’s appointment comes as the financial sector navigates evolving global challenges and seeks to modernize its image. As international ambassador for the UK’s financial and professional services sector, she will serve a one-year term, working alongside the Mayor of London to promote the city’s interests.
The procession itself featured over 7,000 participants, including marching bands, livery companies, representatives from the armed forces, youth organizations, and dancers from around the world. The tradition originated after King John granted the City of London the right to elect its own mayor in 1215.
A key element of the ceremony involves the new Lord Mayor traveling to Westminster to pledge loyalty to the monarch. The life Guards, a division of the Household Cavalry, also participated in the procession.
The Lord Mayor’s Show remains the world’s oldest civic procession, a vibrant display of London’s history and civic pride.
