Former managing editor is next High Sheriff
A FORMER Managing Editor of our sister title the Manchester Evening News has been chosen by King Charles as the next High Sheriff of Greater Manchester.
The appointment of Eamonn O’neal was formally announced by Buckingham Palace on Wednesday, March 13 and he will take up his ceremonial role next month.
In an unusual move, the father-ofthree, from Sale, will be installed as High Sheriff for a second time, having previously held the position in 2020.
This is unique in the history of Greater Manchester, as Mr O’neal has now been appointed by two different monarchs.
He will be installed as High Sheriff at Wardley Hall, Salford in April, succeeding Mary Elizabeth Walker whose term of office ends at that point.
Mr O’neal, who will hold office for 12 months, was managing editor and columnist at the Manchester Evening News for eight years following a successful career in television and radio.
He still presents programmes on BBC Radio Manchester.
He said: “It’s a huge honour and quite humbling to be chosen as High Sheriff of Greater Manchester for the second time.
“I’m grateful to have the chance to connect and engage with the charitable, voluntary, faith, ethnic, cultural and business communities across the county.”
The role Office of High Sheriff is the oldest secular title in British history and among the most ancient in the world, dating back more than 1,300 years.
At that time the Sheriff represented the monarch, collected taxes, raised armies and was the rule of law across the county.
Mr O’neal said: “I won’t be collecting taxes, or raising an army, but as High Sheriff I’ll be proud to represent the King as the ceremonial head of the judiciary in the county.
“I also regard this Royal appointment as recognition of the importance of meaningful connection with local communities.
“The Manchester Evening News is a fine example of how quality journalism and storytelling can have a real impact on people’s lives.
“I’m very proud of having been part of the MEN team, both as an executive and a columnist.
“I would also pay tribute to my colleagues at the various charities I represent.”
Mr O’neal is Chair of Prevent Breast Cancer and The Dianne Oxberry Trust as well as being a trustee of Once Upon a smile and Caritas, Salford
He was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Arts degree by the University of Bolton in 2015 in recognition of his ‘outstanding contribution to the media and charity.’