Captain of the Yeomen of the Guard facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Captain of the King's Bodyguard of the Yeomen of the Guard& Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Lords |
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 The Earl of Courtown since 13 July 2016 |
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| Style | The Right Honourable |
| Appointer | Prime Minister |
| Formation | 1485 |
| First holder | John de Vere, 13th Earl of Oxford |
The Captain of the King's Bodyguard of the Yeomen of the Guard is a special job in the UK Government. This person is usually also the Government Deputy Chief Whip in the House of Lords. Think of them as a key helper for the government in the House of Lords. The current Captain is The 9th Earl of Courtown. He started this role in July 2016.
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What is the Captain of the Yeomen of the Guard?
The Captain of the King's Bodyguard of the Yeomen of the Guard is a very old and important role. The Yeomen of the Guard are a special group of royal bodyguards. They protect the British monarch (the King or Queen). The Captain is in charge of this historic group.
A Link to the House of Lords
This job is often held by a senior member of the government. This person works in the House of Lords. The House of Lords is one of the two parts of the UK Parliament. The Captain helps to manage government business there. They make sure that government plans and laws are supported.
A Look Back: History of the Captains
The role of the Captain of the Yeomen of the Guard began a very long time ago. It started in 1485. Since then, many important people have held this position. They have served different kings and queens throughout history.
Early Captains: 15th and 16th Centuries
The first Captain was John de Vere, 13th Earl of Oxford. He was appointed in 1485. Other notable Captains from these early centuries include:
- Sir Charles Somerset (1486–1509)
- Sir Henry Marney (1509, 1516)
- Sir Walter Raleigh (1586, 1597–1603)
Captains in the 17th and 18th Centuries
The role continued through many changes in British history. During the 17th century, there was a period called the Interregnum (1649-1660). This was when England had no king. The position of Captain was not active then.
In the 18th century, many noblemen held the post. One famous Captain was The 4th Earl of Chesterfield. He served from 1723 to 1725.
Captains in the 19th Century
The 19th century saw many changes in government. The Captains continued to play their part. This period included the reigns of several monarchs.
Captains in the 20th and 21st Centuries
The role has continued right up to today. In the 20th century, the Captains often held other government jobs. This is still true in the 21st century. The Captain helps the government in the House of Lords.
The current Captain is The Earl of Courtown. He has been in the role since 2016. He serves as the Deputy Chief Whip in the House of Lords. This means he helps the government get its laws passed.
Images for kids
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Lord Davies of Oldham, Captain from 2003 to 2010.
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Lord Shutt of Greetland, Captain from 2010 to 2012.
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Lord Newby, Captain from 2012 to 2015.
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Lord Gardiner of Kimble, Captain from 2015 to 2016.
