Island Life June July 2015 June July 2015 | Page 25

THE HIGH SHERIFF

High Sheriff sworn in
M

ore than 100 people attended the formal
swearing in of the Isle of Wight’s new High
Sheriff, Ron Holland, at St Thomas’ Church,
Newport in April.
Those taking part in the Declaration ceremony
assembled for coffee in the Unity Hall before
processing across St. Thomas’ Square - causing
quite a stir among shoppers at the Tuesday market!
After photographs in the west porch, the
procession moved on into the church for an address
by Mr. Justice Christopher Clarke, who explained the
historic role of High Sheriff, followed by the reading
of the Declaration by new incumbent Mr Holland.
John Matthews made his declaration as Under
Sheriff, and Mr Holland spoke about his hopes for
the coming year.
After the ceremony there was a further procession
to the County Club for coffee and cakes, and then a
lunch for 25 guests at the Royal Solent Yacht Club.
Among the attendees were His Honour Judge
John Dixon, The Lord Lieutenant – Major General
Martin White, Mr. Stephen Howe, Mrs. Gay Edwards
(High Sheriff 2009/10), Mr. David Edwards (sword
carrier to Mrs. Edwards), and Canon The Reverend
Michael Weaver.

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