Island Life Magazine Ltd June/July 2008 | Page 38

life SOCIETY Alison, Alan, Camilla and Polly Titchmarsh Alan Titchmarsh High Sheriff The new High Sheriff of the Isle of Wight made his Declaration in the Crown Court in Newport on the 7th of April in the presence of the Lord Lieutenant, the Resident Judge and the Chairman of the Magistrates Bench. Also in the Court were Alan’s family, relations and friends plus many past High Sheriffs and their spouses. The unpaid office of High Sheriff is over one thousand years old and this ancient ceremony is carried out in every bailiwick in England and Wales during April as new High Sheriffs take up their appointments. Having read his Declaration where he pledged fidelity to the Queen, 38 the document was formally signed and then the outgoing High Sheriff, David Langford, placed the Badge of Office round the neck of the new incumbent. Alan then gave a speech outlining his thoughts and aspirations for his coming year as an ambassador for the Island. After the Court proceedings everyone moved to the Quay Arts Centre where the new High Sheriff gave a Reception. By a happy coincidence former High Sheriff Henry Wrigley and his wife Shelia were celebrating their Golden Wedding Anniversary on the s ame day. David Langford & Alan Titchmarsh Sheila and Henry Wrigley www.wightfrog.com/islandlife