In pictures: New High Sheriff is invested at St Albans Cathedral

24 Apr 2024

Dignitaries, community leaders and politicians rubbed shoulders at an ancient ceremony marking the declaration of office of Hertfordshire’s newest High Sheriff.

Annie Brewster took the reins from Liz Green during a service at St Albans Cathedral last week, becoming only the 14th woman to be appointed by the Sovereign to the role in 1,055 years.

In attendance were guests including the Lord-Lieutenant of Hertsd Robert Voss, outgoing Police and Crime Commissioner David Lloyd, Chief Constable Charlie Hall, Honorary Recorder of St Albans Judge Lana Wood, John O’Callaghan, director of Herts Sport and Physical Activity Partnership, ad St Albans Chamber of Commerce President Pat Strods.

A former international athlete, Annie has adopted the theme ‘Sport for Good’ for her year in office, helping to break down obstacles for people of all ages to engage in physical activity.

Supporting the Crown and the judiciary remain central elements of the role, and High Sheriffs actively lend support and encouragement to crime prevention agencies, the emergency services and to the voluntary sector.

The office is held for one year, at no charge to the public purse.

She told the St Albans Times: “There could be no better place than St Albans Cathedral to hold my Declaration Ceremony. It is the county’s finest jewel. In fact it was the place the first meeting to discuss Magna Carta was held in 1213 where 20 of the 63 Clauses of the famous document relate to the role of the Sheriff in the governance of medieval England. No doubt, in an attempt to curb their powers!

“My thanks go to everyone, particularly The Dean and her team, the Cathedral Girls’ Choir who sang so beautifully and Phil Craig who composed a fabulous Fanfare for the event, played by his students from St Albans School. I am overwhelmed by the support I have received from everyone and it makes me even more proud to have been appointed into this prestigious role.”

All photos by Toby Shepheard