Youth makes history with High Sheriff role

HISTORY WAS made when a cadet from a fire and rescue background became the High Sheriff of North Yorkshire’s Cadet for 2020/21.

Samuel Baxter, pictured, from Northallerton, is the first fire and rescue cadet in 1,000 years to be appointed to the role.

The ceremony to appoint him was also the first time in the shrievalty of North Yorkshire’s history to be conducted by video conference.

High Sheriff David Kerfoot appeared in his official robes from his home at Ainderby Steeple, with 16-yearold Samuel, his mother Maggie Baxter and members of the fire service joining from Northallerton Fire Station.

The High Sheriff, who appointed Samuel, said: “I feel it is important to get young people involved with the High Sheriff, and looking at all the things the Fire Cadets do and are involved in, is very thrilling and fills me with hope for our future.” The teenager will accompany the High Sheriff on official duties to various events across the region and assist with any presentations he makes. Cadets appointed by High Sheriffs previously have come from other backgrounds, including the police.

Mrs Baxter said: “This is a real honour for Sam and he was thrilled to be chosen.

“He is really looking forward to working alongside the High Sheriff and will enable him to grow and develop as a cadet.”

Station Manager Michael Dale said it was “an honour and a pleasure to observe the beaming smile on Samuel’s face as he was formally announced as North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service nominated cadet to support the High Sheriff in his role”. The office of sheriff had its origins in the 10th century and reached the height of its power under the Norman kings.