High Sheriff of Shropshire 2012-2013

John Abram, MBE TD JP

It was a great honour to receive the Warrant of my appointment as High Sheriff of Shropshire, informing me that Her Majesty The Queen required me to take the Custody and Charge of the County and duly perform the duties of High Sheriff thereof during Her Majesty’s pleasure.  I was most privileged to do this at my Installation and Declaration Ceremony in Shrewsbury Magistrate’s Court on 5th April 2012.

The High Sheriff is appointed by Her Majesty the Queen to represent Her in the county in matters relating to law and order. During my year in office I look forward to being involved with and offering support to the many people who make such an important contribution in this area, such as the Police, Judges and Magistrates, the Coroners, the Prison and Probation Services plus, of course, our Armed Forces.

During my year in office, I also hope to celebrate the excellent work of the voluntary sector, which is active in so many areas of life across Shropshire. Every day, hundreds of people willingly give their time and energy to help others in many different roles – ordinary people who do extraordinary things.

In particular, I hope to spotlight the activities of the voluntary organisations working with young people throughout our County, and those volunteers who give such vital support to our Regular and Reserve Forces and Veterans

With Much Wenlock’s historic connection as the birthplace of the modern Olympic Games I look forward to taking part in welcoming the Olympic Flame on its journey through Shropshire in May.

2012 will be a very special year throughout the United Kingdom as we celebrate the sixtieth year of Her Majesty’s reign. My wife Christine and I are particularly looking forward to attending the County Pageant at RAF Cosford in July when the County joins together under the leadership of our Lord Lieutenant to celebrate her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee.

Commenting on his appointment, John said:

“ It is a great honour to be entrusted with the office of High Sheriff of Shropshire for the ensuing year. The appointment continues an unbroken line of tradition dating back to the middle ages, and such traditions are worth maintaining as part of the fabric of our nation. I am grateful for the encouragement, advice and support so generously given by our recent High Sheriffs and the Under-Sheriff, and I look forward to an interesting and enjoyable year ahead.”