The Worshipful Company of Security Professionals Celebrates Common Hall and Award Presentation Ceremonies 2024

On Wednesday, 20 November 2024, the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals hosted its prestigious Common Hall and Award Presentation Ceremonies at Saddlers’ Hall, London. This annual event celebrated the achievements of its members, honoured acts of bravery, and welcomed new members to the Company.

A Warm Welcome and Official Proceedings

The event began with a formal welcome by the Master, Mr Michael Thwaites, who presided over the evening. Key attendees included the Immediate Past Master, Mr Russell Penny CPP, Wardens Miss Susan Jones, Mr Wesley Harper, and Mr Andrew Knights, Treasurer Mr Josef Khan, Clerk Mrs Adrienne Harper, and the Honorary Chaplain, The Reverend Canon Roger Hall MBE CF.

The ceremony commenced with the enrolment of new Apprentices:

• Miss Mathilde Ellis

• Miss Angelika Etherington-Smith

• Mr Hugo Khan

• Mr Samuel Legg

• Miss Caitlin McDonald

• Mr Archie McEwan

• Miss Mariam Osmani

These young professionals represent the future of the security profession, with the Apprenticeship Scheme serving as a vital part of the Company’s growth and development.

Admittance of Freemen

Apprentices who had successfully completed their programmes were admitted as Freemen of the Company:

• Miss Dolly Carter

• Miss Ella Jessop

• Mr Tom Layhe

• Miss Charlotte Scott

• Miss Charlotte Wallace

• Mr George Wells

Additionally, the following members were admitted as Freemen of the Company:

• Mr Rian Barnard

• Mr Stephen de Burgh-Thomas

• Mr Gavin Gilbert

• Mr Barry Palmer BEM

• Mr Phillip Griffin

• Mr Matt Price

• Mr Russell Kerr

• Mr Henry Rimmer

• Mr Marc McLaughlin

• Mr Dominic Shaw

Clothing of Freemen as Liverymen

Two Freemen were then formally clothed as Liverymen of the Company, signifying their full membership:

• Mr Gregory Fenner

• Mr Daniel Hadfield

Recognition of Excellence

The annual Awards for Outstanding Achievement by Security Dogs and their Handlers were presented, recognising exceptional contributions in three divisions:

• Civil Division: National Association of Security Dog Users (NASDU)

• Military Division: Private Jake Hoodless & Military Working Dog Keizer

• Law Enforcement Division: The 27 Police Forces that deployed 49 dogs and handlers to safeguard the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics.

The Sheriffs’ Award for Bravery

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2024 Sheriffs’ Award for Bravery, honouring selfless acts of heroism. This year’s recipient, Miss Kayley Mansfield, saved a man’s life by intervening in a violent attack in Guildford, confronting an armed assailant and assisting with the subsequent investigation.

The following finalists were also commended for their extraordinary bravery:

• Ms Rebecca Dunn

• Mr Gary Franklin

• Mr Aria Hashemi

• Mr Abdullah Tanoli

• Ms Gaynor Walters

Each finalist demonstrated courage and determination in life-threatening situations, embodying the values of the Company.

Addresses and Reflections

During the evening, Peter Fraser-Hopewell, a Trustee of the Charitable Trust delivered an address, highlighting the impactful charitable initiatives supported by the Company. The Master reflected on the past year’s achievements and shared aspirations for the future, emphasising professionalism and community within the security sector.

Acknowledgements

The Worshipful Company extended its gratitude to Alderman & Sheriff Gregory Jones KC and Sheriff David Chalk for their roles in the presentations, and to all those who contributed to the success of the evening. This year’s Common Hall was a testament to the Company’s dedication to recognising excellence and promoting growth within the security profession.