On 29 April 2025, an influential group of education leaders, youth workers, and community advocates gathered at SOFEA in Didcot for the second of eight Breakfast Conversations being held across Oxfordshire. Hosted by Richard Kennell of SOFEA and chaired by High Sheriff John May, the morning was not about organisational flag-waving, but about honest dialogue…
Today I had the privilege of visiting the Oxford Magistrates’ Court – a quietly impressive corner of our justice system, often overlooked but absolutely vital to the health of our communities. One of the most striking aspects of the visit was witnessing firsthand the dedication of the Magistrates themselves. These are volunteers who choose to…
Tonight, I had the enormous pleasure of visiting the 22nd Oxford Scout Group and Wanderers Explorer Scout Unit to celebrate the achievements of an exceptional young person — Daisy, an Explorer Scout — who has recently completed both her Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and her King’s Scout Award. These awards are not handed out…
I was honoured to attend this year’s Anzac Day memorial service at the University Church of St Mary the Virgin in Oxford—a deeply moving occasion that brought together Australians, New Zealanders, and others to remember those who served and sacrificed in times of war. Anzac Day has always held special meaning for me, not only…
This morning, on Shakespeare’s birthday, I had the great pleasure of joining friends and supporters of the Oxford Preservation Trust in one of Oxford’s most remarkable hidden spaces: the Painted Room at 3 Cornmarket Street. Tucked above a mobile phone shop and unnoticed by most who pass it daily, the Painted Room is a treasure….
This morning, I had the privilege of attending a fundraising coffee morning at Weston on the Green Village Hall. The hall was packed with people from the village and far beyond, all showing their support for Bob and Paula Hessian following the devastating fire that destroyed their family home just a week ago. It was…
On 15 April, we held the first in a series of High Sheriff’s Big Conversations—a countywide programme of early morning gatherings designed to listen to the needs of young people and the adults who support them. This first conversation took place in the historic Thame Town Hall, thanks to the kind support of Thame Town…
Earlier today, I had the enormous pleasure of attending one of the great traditions of British sporting life – The Boat Race – as the Blue boats of Oxford and Cambridge went head-to-head along the Thames. It was my first time watching the race in person since 1982, when I stood on the towpath as…
Following my official Declaration as High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, I had the great pleasure of celebrating the occasion with a dinner hosted by City of Oxford College. The evening brought together friends, colleagues, and community leaders in the heart of the city—and it was made truly special by the warmth, talent, and professionalism of the…
Over the past four days, I’ve had the rare pleasure—and, dare I say, the privilege—of attending not one, not two, but three High Sheriff Declarations. Mine in Oxfordshire on Thursday. Pippa’s in Buckinghamshire on Friday. And Julie’s in Gloucestershire today. Each one utterly unique. Each one equally meaningful. And all three leaving me truly delighted….
