It is an independent, honorary and non-political appointment for just a year. In Cornwall the appointment is made by HRH The Duke of Cornwall.
In recent years the role of the High Sheriff has evolved to lend support and encouragement to crime prevention agencies, the voluntary sector, community interest companies and charities delivering vital support to underpin the work of the police and law enforcement agencies in our communities.
With two Cornish grandfathers and two Irish grandmothers, my roots are certainly Celtic and definitely Cornish, despite not actually being Cornish born.
My parents moved back to Cornwall when I was very young and I was educated locally in Cornwall before moving to Heathfield School, Ascot and later Pembroke College, Cambridge where I gained an MA in Economics & Philosophy.
After an initial graduate role for the Chambers of Commerce, I went on to do a PGCE (Post Graduate Certificate of Education) at Exeter University.
Alongside raising a family, I taught maths at primary and CE level for several years before furthering my training to specialise in numeracy for SEN.
After 20 years of teaching, I took over the running of the family holiday lettings business back in Cornwall on the death of my father, whilst still living in Somerset.
Both children having now flown the nest to Scotland and London, my husband, George & I made the move back to Cornwall four years ago, setting up a Christmas tree farm and smallholding close to my family home.
This has enabled us to establish several local community initiatives – a monthly Farmer’s market; local flower grower’s hub; Art & Craft Fairs and Antique Fairs which bring us into contact with many local businesses & communities as well as supporting the local RNLI.
Whilst in Somerset, I volunteered with Wivey Link, a local initiative providing transport for the elderly and those in need. Since moving back to Cornwall I have been involved in sponsorship for the Cornwall Christmas Fair which takes place annually at Eden Project, raising critical funds for Cornwall Community Foundation.
I am also a trustee for Cornwall’s Army Museum at Bodmin Keep where I provide guidance on the delivery of the educational aspects as well as currently supporting the Director at a critical time as she negotiates the museum’s future with the MOD.
I sing with a local chorale group, enjoy gardening, walking and exploring our glorious coastline both on land and sea and over the years my husband and I have been significantly involved helping at Badminton & Gatcombe Horse Trials.
I have chosen Young People in Cornwall as my focus for my shrieval year and am very much looking forward to advocating for children, young people and their families and meeting all those individuals and organisations who are working so hard to ensure the best possible future for the young people of our county.
Contact: hsofcornwall@gmail.com
High Sheriffs traditionally appoint their own Chaplain for their year to support and assist on matters of faith. The Chaplain will principally be involved in the Declaration Ceremony on the appointment of The High Sheriff and the Legal Service.
The current High Sheriff Chaplain is Rev Robin Thwaites – Vicar of Camelside Benefice
The High Sheriff has a legal duty to appoint an Under Sheriff who has a vital role in ensuring continuity and deputises for the High Sheriff. The Under Sheriff is a valuable advisor to new High Sheriffs and is familiar with the protocols of the Court, with considerable experience of ceremonial matters.
The Under Sheriff is usually a solicitor and will be in post for a number of years.
Contact:
Philip Reed,
The Office of The High Sheriff of Cornwall,
Stephens Scown LLP, Osprey House, Malpas Road,
TRURO, Cornwall TR1 1UT
01872 265100
