Becoming High Sheriff of Durham is a moment of great pride for my family and me. It reflects the openness and diversity of this remarkable county, and I hope it inspires others from all backgrounds to contribute to public life.
The oldest secular role under the Crown
The Office of High Sheriff is the oldest secular role under the Crown, with origins stretching back over 1,000 years. Emerging from the Anglo‑Saxon system of local governance, sheriffs were originally the monarch’s chief representatives in each shire, responsible for maintaining law and order, collecting taxes, administering justice, and raising local militia when required.
Their authority grew under the Normans before being gradually reshaped through later reforms, including the Sheriffs Act 1887, which defined the modern annual appointment and clarified the responsibilities of the role.
Today, although primarily ceremonial, High Sheriffs serve as key civic figures supporting the judiciary, championing voluntary and community organisations, and encouraging social cohesion across their counties.
For further information about our connections with the Lord-Lieutenant or High Sheriff of County Durham, contact Lucian Hudson, Executive Director, Communications and External Relations, on communications.team@durham.ac.uk
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