Inauguration of the High Sheriff of Cumbria, Mrs Susan Thornely DL, 25th March 2009

Yesterday, 25th March 2009 was my Inauguration as High Sheriff of Cumbria. My name was 'pricked' by Her Majesty the Queen on the 18th March, but I was nominated four year's ago by a former High Sheriff.

The Ceremony took place in the Nisi Prius Court in Carlisle. I was accompanied by my Chaplain, the Revd James Richards of St Martin's Church, Windermere. Her Honour Judge Barbara Forrester, Eldred Curwen, my elder son (a Cumbrian Magistrate) and Mrs Margaret Dalgliesh (Justice of the Peace) were presiding.

I was very pleased to have my son at the Ceremony, and one or two people have suggested that it might be a first for The High Sheriff's son to sign the official documents for his mother. I do not know if this is so. But in Cumbria I am sure it will be a first for lady High Sheriffs.

A Procession, consisting of The Mayor of Carlisle, The Chief Executive of the City, The Mace Bearer and Sword Bearer, the Under Sheriffs of the Bailiwicks of Cumberland and Westmorland, The Chairman of Cumbria County Council and other dignitaries, The Justice of the Peace, The Magistrate Mr Eldred Curwen, and the Circuit Judge, Her Honour Judge Barbara Forrester, my Chaplain, the Outgoing High Sheriff and his Chaplain, and Mr James Cropper, The Lord Lieutenant of the County, walked from the Council Offices to the Courts accompanied by Trumpeters.

After the Ceremony the guests attended an official lunch given by Cllr Tom Clare, Chairman of Cumbria County Council, and was greatly enjoyed by everyone.

For me this was a special day as I felt blessed to have with me my husband David, Eldred and his wife Kate and my younger son Johnnie, who had flown over from France especially for the occasion.

The post of High Sheriff is unsalaried, and the incumbent pays for all his or her own expenses throughout the year. This Inaugural lunch, however, is generously funded each year by Cumbria County Council, to welcome the Incoming High Sheriff.