Ceremonial officer of the English county of Greater Manchester
The Office of High Sheriff of Greater Manchester is the ceremonial position of
High Sheriff appointed to
Greater Manchester, a
metropolitan county in
North West England.[1][2] The appointment is made by the
British monarch, in their capacity as
Duke of Lancaster, by
pricking the Lites.[3] Created in 1974, the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester has the duty to "protect and assist in upholding the dignity and well being of His Majesty's judges and to represent the Queens executive powers in respect of the administration of justice in the county".[4]
The Office of High Sheriff is normally awarded to people of stature in Greater Manchester who have significantly and positively contributed in some way to the county's community either through
voluntary work or through commerce or industry.[2] The High Sheriff of Greater Manchester holds the post for one year and automatically becomes an ex officio trustee of the Greater Manchester High Sheriff's Police Trust during their year of office.[3]
In addition to the role of "Keeper of The King's Peace in the County",[2] foremost duties include looking after the
High Court judges when they are sitting in the
Manchester Crown Court. However, much of the administration being undertaken by an
undersheriff.[1] The post is granted in a ceremony at one of Greater Manchester's
Town halls or other prominent venues in April each year.[1][2]
List of sheriffs
Each High Sheriff begins their year in office on 1 April.