March 2024: Beginning My Shrieval Year
March marked my installation as High Sheriff of Staffordshire, and it has been both inspiring and rewarding. Below is a summary of my activities throughout this remarkable month:
18th March 2024
Official Declaration as High Sheriff
I officially made my Declaration as High Sheriff of Staffordshire at Stafford Crown Court, starting a year of service in this esteemed role. Presided over by Kate Fitzpatrick JP and HHKC Judge Kristina Montgomery, with assistance from Under-Sheriff Amy Glover, the ceremony was a significant milestone. My family and Chaplain, Ian Cardinal, were present, along with outgoing High Sheriff Victoria Hawley, whose guidance and hosting of the lunch reception were greatly appreciated.
19th March 2024
National Crimebeat Awards Ceremonies
National Crimebeat is the Youth Crime Prevention Charity of the High Sheriffs’ Association of England and Wales. I attended the Award Ceremonies in London, celebrating the exceptional efforts of young people leading impactful crime prevention projects. Their dedication to fostering safer communities was truly inspiring.
23rd March 2024
Friends of Staffordshire & West Midlands (North Sector) Army Cadet Force Regimental Dinner
A fabulous evening at The Potters Club, Stoke-on-Trent, thanks to Graham Morley, Vice Lord Lieutenant and attended by the Lord Lieutenant, Sir Ian Dudson. I was honoured to be seated at dinner next to Sir Jonathan Van-Tam, also Guest Speaker, and enjoyed hearing his fascinating life accounts throughout delicious dinner and magnificent Corps of Drums pageantry. The evening highlighted inspiring cadet journeys, underscoring their bright futures as potential leaders.
27th March 2024
Girlguiding Stone Outward Division ‘A Handful of Songs’
I enjoyed an evening of musical excellence as the Stone Girlguiding group presented their biennial show ‘A Handful of Songs’ – the 24th Show in 49-year history! Clearly, passion and talent exemplify the vibrant spirit of these enthusiastic Performers, whilst a resounding Well Done goes to the Producer, Maureen Recine!
27th March 2024
KVAS Ceremony at the National Memorial Arboretum
I joined the celebrations to honour the Friends of the Allied Special Forces Memorial Grove, who received the King’s Award for Voluntary Service from Lord Lieutenant Sir Ian Dudson at the National Memorial Arboretum. Meeting such dedicated individuals in this poignant setting was deeply moving.
31st March 2024
Easter Sunday Service at Lichfield Cathedral
The month concluded with the Easter Sunday Service at Lichfield Cathedral, starting with a vibrant procession from Lichfield Guildhall to the Cathedral where RT Revd Jan McFarlane and Rt Revd Dr Michael Ipgrave, Bishop of Lichfield warmly welcomed us all.
A tremendous honour to attend this landmark Service, streamed live on TV and a beautiful celebration of community, friendship, and faith