The Lieutenancy of Tyne and Wear
Civic Centre, Regent Street, Gateshead, NE8 1HH
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What is a High Sheriff?
The Office of High Sheriff is an independent non-political Royal appointment for a single year.
It is the oldest secular Office in the United Kingdom after the Crown and dates back to Saxon times, when the ‘Shire Reeve’ was responsible to the king for the maintenance of law and order within the shire, or county, and for the collection and return of taxes due to the Crown.
Today, there are 55 High Sheriffs serving the counties of England and Wales each year.
High Sheriff of Tyne and Wear,
Dame Irene Lucas-Hays, DBE
Whilst the duties of the role have evolved over time, supporting the Crown and the judiciary remain central elements of the role today.
In addition, High Sheriffs actively lend support and encouragement to crime prevention agencies, the emergency services and to the voluntary sector.
In recent years High Sheriffs in many parts of England and Wales have been particularly active in encouraging crime reduction initiatives, especially amongst young people.
Many High Sheriffs also assist Community Foundations and local charities working with vulnerable and other people both in endorsing and helping to raise the profile of their valuable work.
The Lieutenancy of Tyne and Wear
Civic Centre, Regent Street
Gateshead, NE8 1HH
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