Royal role for VC
THE vice-chancellor of Edge Hill University has been appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant of Lancashire.
Dr John Cater CBE, who has been vice-chancellor of the university for 25 years, was appointed by The Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, The Lord Shuttleworth KG KCVO, with effect from Friday, January 18.
He will join the existing team of deputies who help and support the lord-lieutenant in his duties as the Queen’s representative in Lancashire.
Prof Clive Edwards, pro-chancellor and chair of the board of governors, said: “I am delighted that our vice-chancellor, Dr John Cater, has agreed to become one of Lancashire’s Deputy Lieutenants.
“John has a deep commitment to the region and its people.
“I am certain that he will excel in this public role and he brings to it a wealth of experience at local and national levels.”
Lord-lieutenants are the monarch’s personal representative in a county or area.
Their prime duty is to uphold the dignity of the crown, by:
Arranging visits by Royal family members and escorting Royal visitors.
Presentation of medals and awards on behalf of the Queen (such as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise).
Participation in civic, voluntary and social activities with the lieutenancy.
Liaison with local units of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Army, Royal Air Force and their associated cadet forces.
Leading the local magistracy by chairing the Advisory Committee on Justices of the Peace.
The function of a deputy lieutenant is to assist the lord-lieutenant in carrying out public duties.
The office of lord-lieutenant dates from the reign of Henry VIII, when the holder was responsible for maintaning order and for military purposes relating to local defence.