Burnham-On-Sea’s MP has welcomed the appointment of Somerset’s new High Sheriff during a ceremony in Wells Cathedral.
Sylvana Chandler has succeeded John Cullum, who held the post for the previous year.
The Office of High Sheriff is an annual, independent and non-political Royal appointment and Sylvana is one of the UK’s 55 High Sheriffs.
Tessa said: “I was honoured to be present at the ceremony and to meet our new High Sheriff. Somerset has a proud tradition of High Sheriffs since the first recorded, Sheriff Godwine in 1061.”
“Traditions like this are important, although the duties of a High Sheriff have evolved over the years.”
The origins of the office date back to Saxon times, when the Sheriff was responsible for maintaining law and order within the county, and for collecting taxes due to the Monarch. Today, the role includes supporting crime prevention agencies, the emergency services, voluntary organisations and local charities.
