Mr. Timothy Wates DL, who is the first High Sheriff to be appointed in Surrey by a King in over seventy years, was installed at a ceremony held at Guildford Cathedral on the 23rd of March, after being handed over the badge of office by his predecessor. Tim commented: “It is a high honour to be installed as High Sheriff – I will put my all into the role and am very much looking forward to seeing and supporting the full Surrey. My theme for the year will be mental health. I will focus particularly on the interface between the Surrey Police and people suffering an acute mental health crisis and, with the Police, will sponsor research in this which will be completed in the summer of this year. I would like to acknowledge my predecessor His Honour Christopher Critchlow DL for his fantastic year in office and also thank him for his warm support for me as I have prepared for the role over the past few months”
As incoming High Sheriff, Tim has appointed Mrs. Caroline Breckell MVO DL as his Under Sheriff, The Rev Patrick Samuels as his Chaplain, and Police Cadet Abigail from the Surrey Heath Unit as his Cadet for the year. Abigail takes over from Grace who this year supported the High Sheriff at many events as well as volunteering within the community. Following the speeches, the new High Sheriff undertook his first official task of presenting prizes to the young winners of the Knife Angel Art Competition.