By Isle of Wight Observer
Jacqueline Gazzard has officially taken up the ceremonial role of High Sheriff of the Isle of Wight.
On Monday, she swore the traditional oath of service and signed her declaration of office at a service in Newport Minster, witnessed by the Island’s Vice Lord-Lieutenant, Brigadier Maurice Sheen, and Resident Judge, Michael Bowes KC.
The position is steeped in history and is the oldest continuous secular Office under the Crown, with roots going back centuries. Although today’s High Sheriffs do not have the same duties as their historical counterparts, who were responsible for collecting taxes, judging cases and enforcing the law – which even included raising a ‘hue and cry’ to catch criminals – the holder is still the Sovereign’s representative on legal matters.
Each High Sheriff serves a single unpaid term of office lasting a year. It is a non-political, voluntary role, and, although these days it is regarded as an honour and largely involves supporting charities and the voluntary sector, it still brings considerable personal costs.
Each High Sheriff is chosen by the Monarch, who ‘pricks’ their name with a bodkin from a list of candidates written on vellum.
The practice, which dates back to at least the reign of Henry VII (1485-1508), is thought to have come into use because, unlike ink, the mark could not be erased by a nominee unwilling to take on the responsibility, and costs of the role Jacqueline (also known as Jacque) succeeds Graham Biss in the role.
She was born on the Island, and has pledged to help voluntary sector organisations work together to offer more opportunities for young Islanders.
She said: “I am very proud to represent the Island and looking forward to meeting many local groups during the coming 12 months. I will work to support and promote opportunities for young Islanders, building chances for them to achieve their ambitions.
“I also want to support the many people who make up the magnificent voluntary sector on our Island. Without them we simply couldn’t function.”
The High Sheriff’s ceremonial uniform is based on late 17th Century court dress for men, but there is more leeway for ladies, as the first one took office in 1979. Jacqueline has been able to source almost all her outfit from the Island, with the exception of the ostrich feathers on her hat. Her coat was made by Gerry Tulloch at Forget-Me-Knot, in Ryde, and the hat is from Lucy Whelan’s clothing emporium, in Seaview. The linen lace, used in her jabot (the white bow tie worn around the neck) and the cuffs, is particularly special as it was made by Jacqueline’s grandmother more than 90 years ago. Adding a further historical touch, the sword used for this year’s swearing-in was originally owned by Sir Edward Horsey, a pirate supporter of Queen Elizabeth I, who is buried at Newport
Minster.
April Newtown was re-appointed as Under Sheriff, a position she has held since 2020 since the retirement of John Matthews who held the role for 15 years.
Mal Butler