Duties & Responsibilities
The office of High Sheriff of the Isle of Wight is a conduit for charity fundraising, particularly for those charities and community groups on the Island with emphasis on the needs of the young and the elderly, and on crime prevention.
The role provides the incumbent with the opportunity to get into the fabric of the Island and understand the challenges facing the community along with the aims of those organisations trying to address some of these issues.
By developing a greater understanding of their aims, it is possible to unite those organisations not only with those they are trying to help but also other groups with a similar goal.
The Role
The Office of High Sheriff is non-political and unpaid, and no part of the High Sheriff’s expenses falls on the public purse.
The appointment runs for one year starting in April.
Any citizen of good character owning property within the Isle of Wight may be appointed.
The Office is a royal appointment. It is made at a meeting of the Privy Council where the custom of HM the King literally pricking a hole through the nominee’s name on the Roll with a bodkin is perpetuated.
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Duties
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Attends royal visits to the Isle of Wight.
Provides hospitality and looks after the wellbeing of High Court Judges visiting the Isle of Wight.
Acts as the Returning Officer for parliamentary elections.
Is responsible for the proclamation of the accession of a new Sovereign.
Is advised and assisted by a legally trained Under-Sheriff.
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Responsibilities
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Support and encourage voluntary and statutory organisations engaged in all aspects of civil law and order. Key to this is an association with organisations involved with young people, particularly those that seek to keep them from drifting into crime.
Make awards to those who, in the opinion of the Judges at a criminal trial, have been active in the apprehension of certain offenders.
Participates in Citizenship Ceremonies.