Today I had the enormous pleasure of joining the people of Shrivenham as they celebrated the 100th anniversary of their much-loved Parish Hall at their ‘Party on the Rec’—a building that’s not only architecturally impressive (that glorious triple-hammer beam ceiling still takes your breath away!) but one that continues to serve as a true beating…
It’s not often you can say that your morning coffee was paid for by a drugs baron. But today was that day. This morning, I had the privilege of attending the Thames Valley Police Community Fund presentation event—an inspiring occasion recognising grassroots organisations working tirelessly to make our communities safer, more resilient, and more compassionate….
Today, alongside Pippa and Sean—the High Sheriffs of Buckinghamshire and Berkshire—I had the privilege of visiting Thames Valley Police Headquarters in Kidlington. Together, we represent the three counties served by the force, and this visit offered a comprehensive insight into the operations and challenges faced by Thames Valley Police. A Warm Welcome Our day began…
Dear friends, As I look back on my first month as High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, I am struck by the privilege and variety of experiences this role affords. From the solemnity of my Declaration to the inspiration of conversations with young people and the communities who support them, April has been filled with ceremony, service,…
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…
