It is a great honour to have been chosen to serve as High Sheriff of Shropshire. My aim will be to carry on the excellent work done by my predecessors.

I took office as High Sheriff of Shropshire on 23rd March 2018 and made my Declaration as High Sheriff at Palmers Hall in Ludlow. I am very grateful to be supported by my wife Georgina, my Under Sheriff Madeleine Butcher and my Chaplain The Reverend Kelvin Price.

The office of High Sheriff is the oldest secular office in the country after the monarchy. It was an important office created under the Anglo-Saxon kings and was retained by the Normans after the Conquest. The word ‘Sheriff’ derives its name from ‘Shire Reeve’ who was the head of the community in Anglo Saxon Britain. Today the former extensive military powers which the office enjoyed have gone and the role now involves a mix of ceremonial, charitable and community functions. Most importantly, the role is voluntary, unfunded and non-political.

Looking forward to the year ahead, I aim to learn about, meet, help and encourage the many small local charities in the County who do such fine work providing the glue for our local society. I will explore the re establishment of a community fund which can receive legacies and donations to support these charities in their work across the country.

I will carry out my legal and ceremonial duties with the utmost diligence and enthusiasm including:

• To support all those people interested in protecting and promoting law and order in the County with particular reference to the Police, Ambulance, Fire Service and Armed Forces
• To support the judiciary to include the Judges, Magistrates, Coroners, Prison and Probations Service
• To support local charities within the County