New High Sheriff of Rutland declared in ceremony at Oakham Castle, as part of centuries old tradition
Representatives from across the county assembled at Oakham Castle yesterday to witness the declaration of the new High Sheriff of Rutland.
The role, which was first set up in 1129, represents an important figure in both Rutland's heritage and modern connection to the organisations that are important to the county today.
The ceremony was opened by fanfare by Mr S. Foster and Mr. S Watson, accompanying the procession into the castle.
Kate Blank, Undersheriff from 2010 – 2025, welcomed attendees to the ceremony and reflected on her time over the last 15 years as Under Sheriff.
"You cannot move on without looking to the past," said Kate, emphasising the importance of one High Sheriff learning from their predecessor.
Kate officially passed on the role of Under Sheriff to previous High Sheriff (2011-2012) Peter Lawson BEM. Lawson has also previously held the role of Deputy Lieutenant of Rutland and, since his retirement, holds leading roles at Oakham School, University of Leicester, Peterborough Cathedral Development Trust, Rutland Historic Churches Preservation Trust and Warning Zone.
Lord Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr Sarah Furness, gave an address thanking the outgoing High Sheriff Richard Cole for his dedication and hard work in the role.
"Richard Cole has been an incredible High Sheriff," she said. "I'm so grateful he agreed to have a second go at the role."
Cole's community connections and dedication to giving back to the people in Rutland is a theme which can be seen throughout his year as High Sheriff.
In his speech reflecting on his time in the role, Cole said "I wanted to be open to everyone in Rutland as these continue to be tough and uncertain times.
"I used social media to spread light on those going the extra mile in their community."
In an interview with Oakham Nub News, Cole said: "People have asked me what's been your highlight so far and it's always been whatever I did yesterday. I never imagined how good it would be and how much fun it would be meeting so many people.
"I've been really in awe of really just how many people volunteer so selflessly to make the lives of others better in whatever shape or form. It's phenomenal."
The service continued with the handover of the role of Police Cadet of Miss E. Moore.
It was then time for the incoming High Sheriff to recite his Declaration, stating he will carry out the role and represent the Sovereign within Rutland in matters relating to the judiciary and in the maintenance of law and order.
[Watch him read his whole declaration here.]
Colonel Richard T Chesterfield read out the official declaration and took part in the official handover of the role from Cole to Chesterfield, marked with a silver medal on a blue ribbon placed round the neck of the new High Sheriff.
At this point, the new High Sheriff gave his address, first thanking Richard Cole for his support on the run up to the declaration and then looking to his plans for his year in the role.
"I am prone to a bit of chaos," said Chesterfield, "but I hope to be a force for good in Rutland by supporting the voluntary organisations of Rutland, both small and large."
"I don't have a singular theme but rather a broad approach," he continued, describing the importance of 'social capital' in the bonds and networks in the county.
"We do build on the foundations laid by our predecessors. I like what Richard has done, and I'd like to continue that."
He also said he is interested in learning more about and getting involved with local community organisations that have a direct impact on the lives of local people. An example he gave was working with the veteran's community in the county and helping to sign post them to the multiple organisations and social groups that they can attend if they need support.
The ceremony was closed by a prayer from Ven. J. R. Ellis and final fanfare as the procession left the castle.
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