Hertfordshire’s newly elected high sheriff has spoken about her “whirlwind” first few weeks in the role.
Annie Brewster was ushered into this ancient role at a Declaration Ceremony on April 17 in St Albans Cathedral.
Annie, who has lived all her life in Hertfordshire, served as a councillor at all three tiers of local government for 17 years, including stints as Mayor of St Albans and as Chairman of Hertfordshire County Council. Annie says her time in local politics has given her a strong insight into local issues.
Speaking to mylocalNEWS, Annie said: “My ambition is for the role of high sheriff to be more widely known about, especially for children so that they can aspire to take on positions like this.”
Annie has adopted ‘Sport for Good’ as the theme of her year in office, inspired by her background as an international runner. At 17, Annie was ranked second in the UK for 1300 metres while at 35, she came third in the World Championships for the quickest 5k walk. Now, she is collaborating with Herts Sports Partnership in a bid to promote the use of sport and physical activity as a force for social good.
Unusually, Annie has decided to don the male high sheriff’s velvet uniform, wearing breeches instead of a skirt.
She said: “I wanted to be able to wear the 19th century court sword, as I thought it would be interesting for children to see, so I needed to wear breeches.”
Her outfit was made bespoke by ex-Savile Row, Tring based tailor, Jorden Elisabeth while her hat was made by a milliner in Luton.
Annie hopes she can network and connect people within the county.
She said: “I want to thank and affirm the charities and organisations in our county – these are the heroes who step in when the state can’t. They are more important than ever.”
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