High Sheriffs take their oaths
The new High Sheriffs of West and East Sussex have begun their year in office with a formal Declaration Ceremony at Lewes Crown Court.
Davina Irwin-clark, from Handcross in West Sussex, and Violet Hancock, who lives in Ringmer in East Sussex, will both serve as The Queen’s representatives for law and order in their counties, lending active support to the Judiciary, the Police and other emergency services. They will also take an active part in supporting and promoting local voluntary organisations.
The two High Sheriffs were joined in court on Friday, March 22, by the Lordlieutenant of West Sussex Susan Pyper and The Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex Mr Peter Field, Chief Constable of Sussex Giles York QPM, senior Judges and representatives of the emergency services, county dignitaries and family and friends. Each delivered their Oath of Declaration in front of the Presiding High Court Judge for the Southeastern Circuit, The Hon Mr Justice Edis. The voluntary appointment is for one year. Each High Sheriff appoints an Under Sheriff for the year to assist them in their duties.
This year’s Under Sheriff for both counties is Mr Kevin Smyth, from Ditchling, a solicitor, commercial mediator, and Trustee of the Martlets Hospice in Hove. The High Sheriffs have also appointed a Chaplain for each county: The Reverend Peter Irwin-clark of Handcross, West Sussex; and The Reverend Jim Horton of St Nicholas, Saltdean, East Sussex.