A historic ceremony took place in London in July, with a wide range of vintage vehicles entering in to Guildhall Yard. These excellent photographs were sent in by Peter Quinn.
Hosted by the City of London and the Worshipful Company of Carmen, the Cart Marking Ceremony, started around 500 years ago, as a form of vehicle licensing. After the owner had paid for a licence, a mark would be burnt onto their wooden cart, signalling it was officially certified.
Even today, all vehicles passing through Guildhall Arch still pay (25p) to the City of London, in honour of the tradition. A red hot iron brand is used, although today, it’s pressed onto a block of wood attached to the vehicle, rather than the chassis itself.
More than 50 vehicles took part,…
