Former Business West President declared Bristol’s new High Sheriff

Michael Bothamley was declared Bristol’s new High Sheriff by Mr Justice Blake at a ceremony held at Bristol Crown Court this morning.

Michael is Sector Head for Real Estate at DAC Beachcroft LLP, an international law firm with its largest office, employing 680 people, in Bristol.He comments: “For me a vital focus of the High Sheriff’s role is the place where young people and the law and order agenda meet.

“That’s where there’s a marvellous cross-over between the High Sheriff’s responsibility to encourage the voluntary sector, and its support by business, and his duty to uphold the principal organs of the Constitution – Queen and Royal Family, Judiciary, Police and emergency services and the local authority.

“As a past President of Business West, a member of the Society of Merchant Venturers and someone who’s been involved with a wide range of charities, I’ve made great connections in all those areas.”

The role of High Sheriff is the oldest secular office in the UK after the Crown, with a history going back more than 1,000 years.

It was also announced that James Myatt of Thrings has been reappointed Under Sheriff for the County and City of Bristol.

As Under Sheriff, James will provide advice and administrative support to the new High Sheriff.

James comments: “I am proud to have served under twelve previous High Sheriffs, and am looking forward to working with Michael to uphold the history and traditions of the role and promoting the benefits which the Office of High Sheriff brings to the people of Bristol.”

High Sheriffs, like Lord Lieutenants, are appointed personally by the Sovereign and are representatives of the Sovereign in their county, with the High Sheriff responsible for law and order and the Lord Lieutenant for civil and other matters.

The High Sheriff also supports initiatives promoting crime reduction and the High Sheriff’s fund makes grants to various local projects.