The High Sheriff of Shropshire for 2023-24, Mandy Thorn MBE DL
The role of the High Sheriff is as the King’s representative for the county, for all matters relating to the judiciary and the maintenance of law and order.
Much of the role for a modern day High Sheriff’s year is spent supporting and encouraging the voluntary and statutory organisations who work in these areas, and in Shropshire this means involvement with the Crown and Magistrates’ Courts, the Police, Prison and Probation Services.
Mandy Thorn MBE DL was declared the new High Sheriff of Shropshire for 2023-24 on Thursday 13 April, at St. Mary’s Under the Wrekin church, in Leighton, Shropshire.
Traditionally, High Sheriffs look after visiting High Court Judges to the county, although such visits are now rare in Shropshire.
The High Sheriff does however make awards to those who, in the opinion of the Judges at a criminal trial, have been active in the apprehension of certain offenders.
The Office of High Sheriff is apolitical and as such the High Sheriff is in a unique position to be able to bring people together within the county and to support the enormous contribution made by the emergency services, the armed forces, local authorities, church and faith groups and the voluntary community.
In a ceremonial capacity, the High Sheriff assists the Lord Lieutenant of the county with Royal visits, is the Official Returning Officer for parliamentary elections and has responsibility for proclaiming the accession of a new Sovereign.
The High Sheriff is a voluntary role and as such, Mandy Thorn MBE DL meets the costs of her year in office herself, with no part of her expenses falling on the public purse.
