New High Sheriff takes up post by video link-up in a first for 1,000-year-old role

THE coronavirus situation has led to the High Sheriff of Lancashire officially taking up her new post via video conferencing.

A swearing-in ceremony is held annually, but the current situation led to a break with tradition for this role, which dates back over 1,000 years.

The new High Sheriff of Lancashire, Mrs Catherine Penny, has given the county’s first virtual swearing-in.

Catherine has held a number of roles in the voluntary sector, and is currently the Chairman of the Shepherd Street Trust, a

Preston-based charity, which provides funding for children and young people in need of assistance.

Each year Her Majesty The Queen personally appoints the High Sheriff of Lancashire.

This ancient office dates back to the reign of Henry II.

The office of High Sheriff is an unpaid and voluntary office.

The new High Sheriff takes over the office from the incumbent High Sheriff, The Honourable Ralph C Assheton TD DL.

Speaking following the ceremony, Catherine said: “I feel honoured to take up the role of High Sheriff, especially as the first person to have been sworn-in using digital technology due to these unprecedented times.

“We all owe a tremendous amount to key workers, who are working in these very difficult circumstances and are having to cope with new situations, especially people in the NHS, carers, the police and other emergency services.

“As life gets back to normal once again, I’ll be looking to highlight the best of our county, including the work of voluntary groups and young people, who have supported others during these difficult times.”