Stood up for a sheep – that’s a first, jokes judge
Court’s new arrival is greeted with an apology from absentee
A top judge made a sheepish apology for not being able to welcome a new recruit to the bench at Maidstone Crown Court this week.
Mr Jus t ice Stuart-Smith sent an email saying he could not be present to greet Judge Adele Williams – because he had to take his wife’s sheep to the abattoir.
Judge Williams replied to the High Court judge: “Don’t worry, being Welsh, I know about sheep.” The former resident judge at Canterbury Crown Court joked to colleagues, lawyers and court staff congregating to welcome her: “When I received that email I thought this is the first time in my life I have been stood up for a sheep.” Resident Judge Jeremy Carey said: “We need Judge Williams. She needs no introduction. It goes without saying she is unreservedly welcome here.” The new incumbent of Court 5 was called to the Bar 44 years ago and made a circuit judge in 2000. She married Andrew Patience QC, a former resident judge at Maidstone, in 1975. Christopher May, for the Bar, welcomed Judge Williams to her new “home”. He pointed out how times had changed over the years.
At one time a High Court judge would have arrived by limousine to a fanfare and stay in lodgings. Now, he was likely to pedal in on a fold-up bicycle.
“The (Bar) Mess looks forward to all you will bring to Maidstone Crown Court,” added Mr May.
Judge Williams replied: “It really does feel like coming home. I spent a very long time appearing in this court right from the days when it was first opened by the Queen in 1984.
“I am very pleased to be here. I look forward to many years to come.”