THE incoming High Sheriff of Shropshire has officially made her declaration — in a very different setting to many who have preceded her because of the coronavirus.

Dean Harris, an experienced magistrate who has served in Shropshire for many years, officially took on the role as High Sheriff of Shropshire for the term on Friday.

She has pledged as a priority to help as many people and organisations as possible during this unprecedented time.

The ceremony was set to be held in the company of invited guests and dignitaries at the Shrewsbury Justice Centre, but instead, Mrs Harris made her official declaration as High Sheriff by video call.

She explained: “I’m delighted to have been appointed today — it is a great honour and a privilege.

“I’ve taken over the role from Dr Josh Dixey who’s had an incredible year and I just want to personally say a huge thank you to him.

“In no way do I underestimate the demands and challenges that are ahead of me at such a testing time for our county, and I absolutely intend to do justice to the role.

“The next couple of months are not going to be easy for anybody and I’m absolutely here to help however, and wherever, I can.

“A collective effort of decency, compassion and kindness is going to be crucial — and already we’ve seen just how much goodwill and generosity there is here in Shropshire.

“I understand that the role of High Sheriff may not one familiar to some but I’ll be working over the next 12 months to help make a real and meaningful contribution to our county in many, many ways – by supporting the police, law enforcement agencies, the emergency services, local authorities, and playing an active role in supporting charities and voluntary organisations.”

While Mrs Harris is committed to supporting ‘everything Shropshire’, she said her principal focus will be on domestic abuse, addiction, and child poverty and deprivation.

She added: “These causes will no doubt be exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic, and will need attention more now than ever.

“Like everyone, I hope that coronavirus will pass as quickly as possible, that we all stay as safe as possible until it does, and that we can all look forward to better times ahead very soon.”