On Wednesday, 16 October 2024 the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals gathered for its Annual Dinner, marking a special milestone – the 25th Anniversary of the Company’s founding. Generously sponsored by Mitie, the event was held at the historic Guildhall, specifically in the Old Library and Print Room, whose grandeur and timeless architecture provided the perfect backdrop for this silver anniversary celebration.

The evening began with a drinks reception, where the 190 attendees mingled in an atmosphere of camaraderie. During the dinner, the Master Michael Thwaites thanked our 25th Anniversary Patrons for their generosity and support; Mr Patrick Curran, Sir David Garrard, Gratte Bros Security Mgt Ltd, Dame Julie Kenny DBE, Lazerbeam Fire & Security Ltd – Mr Hamid Nejad and the Hon Per-Olof Lööf & Mrs Robin Loof Esq.

The Master then led the guests in a series of loyal toasts including the Loyal Toast, the Toast to the Royal Family, and the Civic Toast, each honoring the longstanding values and traditions of the Company.

The Royal Air Force Salon Orchestra provided exceptional entertainment for the evening, a prestigious ensemble that delighted attendees with music befitting the occasion. Their performance was a fitting tribute to the Company’s military affiliations with the Royal Air Force Regiment and the Royal Air Force Police, underscoring the honour of having distinguished guests from the British Armed Forces grace the event and setting a memorable tone for the evening.

Several distinguished guests were recognised for their contributions; Miss Kayley Mansfield was awarded the Sheriffs’ Award for Bravery for her courage in disarming an armed individual, a heroic act that likely saved a life. Following an introduction by Middle Warden Wes Harper, the Sheriffs, Alderman Gregory Jones KC and David Chalk, presented their Award for Bravery for 2024 to Kayley as their Principal Recipient who received a standing ovation from members and guests; Mr Nicholas Gunnell received the Annual Essay Prize for his work during his MA studies in Society and Terrorism at King’s College London, further emphasizing the Company’s dedication to scholarship in the security field.

Brigadier Sarah Pringle-Smith presented the Provost Marshall (ARMY) Sword to the Hon Per-Olof Lööf. Per, a founding member of the Company, made a very generous donation in the early days which helped the Company to establish itself. At the Company’s 20th Anniversary, Per once again made a generous donation to mark the occasion and this enabled the Company to establish the Per Loof Apprentice Bursary travel scheme. This has enabled Apprentices to re-claim travel expenses when traveling to or from Company events. This year, Per made another donation which has enabled the Company to celebrate its 25th Anniversary and has also helped to establish a perpetuating annual award for the Young (Security) Entrepreneur of the year.

The guest speaker, Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles KCMG LVO, drew upon his distinguished 30-year career in the British Diplomatic Service, which included roles such as private secretary to the Head of the Diplomatic Service, Head of the Foreign Office’s Hong Kong Department, and Ambassador to Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Afghanistan. His extensive experience gave depth to his speech on current global conflicts and Sir Sherard’s insights, informed by his personal encounters with complex international issues, resonated deeply with attendees.

This milestone event underscored the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals’ 25-year commitment to upholding courage, knowledge, and service, as well as its dedication to supporting and celebrating those who contribute meaningfully to the field of security