Yesterday, when my cousin, Professor Rory Medcalf, delivered the 2025 Sir James Plimsoll Lecture in Hobart, Tasmania, he discussed a compelling idea that has immediately resonated with me: progressive patriotism. Rory—who heads the Australian National University’s National Security College—spoke not just with academic insight, but with a real sense of civic purpose. His reflections, though…
Yesterday evening, I had the privilege of attending the Sundown Ceremony at RAF Benson—a moving and dignified event steeped in tradition, carried out with all the hallmark precision and pride one expects from the Royal Air Force. As the sun began its slow descent over the Oxfordshire countryside, every detail was in place. The ceremonial…
This morning, I had the great pleasure of joining Oxfordshire Youth for the launch of our Business Guardians Council—a ground-breaking new initiative bringing together some of Oxfordshire’s most forward-thinking companies to support young people who need us most. We gathered in the Youth Innovation Centre, part of Oxfordshire Youth’s inspiring new base at the ARC…
Last night, I attended my first ever formal dinner at an Oxford college—and what a privilege it was that it should be at The Queen’s College, for their Fettiplace Gaudy. The invitation alone felt like an honour; to be seated at High Table, next to the Provost, was truly extraordinary. High Sheriffing is definitely bringing…
As part of this year’s countywide series of Shrieval Breakfast Conversations, a diverse group of professionals came together in Banbury this morning to reflect on a vital question: How can we better support young people in Oxfordshire—especially those who feel unheard, unseen, or unsupported? The event was hosted at Banbury and Bicester College and brought…
Earlier today, I visited Garth Park and the offices of Bicester Town Council to sign the three books of condolence opened following the devastating fire at Bicester Motion. I was joined by Miranda Markham DL, representing the Lord-Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, and the Revd Peter Wright from St Edburg’s Church, who offered words of quiet reflection…
As His Majesty’s High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, I want to express my heartfelt sympathy following the devastating fire at Bicester Motion. This tragedy has claimed the lives of two firefighters and a member of the public, with others seriously injured. My thoughts are with their families, loved ones, and the entire Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue…
Yesterday afternoon at Lucy Group Head Office, a distinguished panel came together to judge the entries for this year’s High Sheriff’s Young Engineer of the Year Award—a celebration of ingenuity, creativity, and the inspiring potential of Oxfordshire’s young people. Chaired by Richard Dick, Chairman of Lucy Group and himself a former High Sheriff of Oxfordshire,…
Not strictly a Shrieval engagement—but today was certainly a personal milestone worth sharing. I was deeply honoured to be invested as a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales during a ceremony at Windsor Castle. For those unfamiliar with it, the Royal Victorian Order is a dynastic…
Over the past couple of days, the Oxfordshire Shrievalty has had the great privilege of attending four Mayor Making ceremonies across the county – each one a unique celebration of civic service, community spirit, and local leadership. But what exactly is a Mayor Making? At its heart, a Mayor Making is the formal annual meeting…
