Backing our community

Declared High Sheriff of Dorset in a lockdown ceremony in his garden, GEORGE STREATFEILD wants to reward the county’s community spirit during Covid-19

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It is a huge honour to become the High Sheriff and to be ‘The Sovereign’s Legal Representative for Dorset’ - the oldest continuous secular Office under the Crown - in a county that I love and have lived in for the most of my life.

In times past, the High Sheriff was the most powerful figure in the county; he administered all aspects of the law and collected the taxes, making him a deeply unpopular figure. Today, although the role retains links with the judiciary and law enforcement it is mostly ceremonial; it is also a role that is now open to both men and women.

As High Sheriff, I’m required to take an active interest in and offer encouragement to, any organisation or individual involved directly or indirectly in the administration of justice, law and order in the county. This covers the courts, the probation service, witness support, the Prison Service, police, fire and rescue, and local government officers including mayors and councillors. It also includes voluntary organisations, particularly those involved in offender rehabilitation and victim support, as well as those who work to prevent the vulnerable getting drawn into crime.