Brabners chairman and Wirral resident Stephen Burrows has been officially installed as the High Sheriff of Merseyside for 2017/18.
Dignitaries from across the region gathered at St George’s Hall in Liverpool today for a traditional ceremony marking the official start of Stephen’s year of office.
The appointment of High Sheriff of Merseyside is made by the Queen in an ancient ceremony which dates back to the 16th century. The custom began in the reign of Queen Elizabeth 1 (1558-1603) and is the method in which the High Sheriffs of the county palatine of Lancaster – Merseyside, Lancashire and Greater Manchester – are appointed.
A banker by profession and now chairman of commercial law firm Brabners, he has been involved in many charities and organisations in the county over the years.
Stephen said: “It is a huge honour and I am grateful for this incredible opportunity to serve the Merseyside region which has been my home for 25 years. I intend to make a meaningful contribution by supporting many causes, including the voluntary and educational sectors across Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens and Wirral.
“I accept this huge privilege with grace, pride and dedication for the year ahead and look forward to serving the communities of Merseyside in line with a custom and tradition established over many years.”
The office of High Sheriff has existed for more than a thousand years and is a voluntary and non-political role.
In the early days responsibilities included duties such as law enforcement, collection of taxes and levies and judging cases in the courts.
Today this important role in the county – second only to Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside – carries responsibilities which include supporting the voluntary sector, upholding and actively supporting the Royal Family, the judiciary, police, emergency services, local authorities and church and faith groups.
Stephen takes over the role from outgoing High Sheriff Jim Davies.