Beadles tradition: Savile Row to Burlington Arcade

The Beadles have been protecting London's Burlington Arcade since 1819.

Originally recruited by Lord Cavendish from his family regiment the 10th Hussars, they enforced his code of behaviour.

Beadles are thought to be the smallest private police force in existence, and pre-date the Metropolitan Police Force by some 10 years.

Head Beadle Mark Lord is responsible for upholding the tradition of past Beadles and the 18th Century livery.

Keith Levett, livery tailor at Henry Poole, which was founded in 1806, has designed new uniforms. Dark blue, claret and silver have been used in keeping with Lord George Cavendish's regiment.

Produced by John Galliver and Claudia Redmond