‘I rediscovered just what this county has to offer’: High Sheriff's 'amazing' term in office

Those are among the highlights of the year for outgoing High Sheriff Dean Harris. She says despite having to carry out her duties in the shadow of coronavirus she was pleased to be able to engage with communities and projects across the length and breadth of the county.

Just as Shropshire’s first citizen was about start her duties in the spring, the pandemic struck with the full lockdown forcing her to rethink how she would carry out her role for the 12-month term of office.

Overnight, the majority of organisations were operating more online and so did the High Sheriff’s role. Instead of a ceremony in the company of dignitaries at the Shrewsbury Justice Centre, Mrs Harris made her official declaration by video call behind closed doors.

“At first, I must confess I was one of those people who thought the pandemic might all be over as quickly as it had begun, but it soon became apparent that I was going to have to adapt my plans so I could still make the most of my year,” she said.

“I’m so glad I took the approach of becoming a ‘virtual High Sheriff’ and blending online and face-to- face meetings during times when the restrictions have been lifted, as that meant I’ve still been able to meet, support and work alongside a huge number of individuals and organisations across Shropshire.”

“I am very respectful of the history and traditions associated with the role of High Sheriff, but I also wanted to ensure it maintains its relevance in today’s world.

“Being unable to conduct most of the ceremonial elements of the role has brought into focus what it’s really all about – making a positive contribution to the county, and supporting and encouraging the judiciary, emergency services, crime prevention initiatives, voluntary sector, crown, faith groups and our two local authorities, to name just a few.

“Past High Sheriffs of Shropshire have been through the Great Plague, Normal Conquest and two world wars – and now my name is among them as the incumbent in the year of coronavirus.

“On a personal note, it has been an absolute honour and privilege to serve as Shropshire’s High Sheriff.” Mrs Harris said she now understood so much more about the third sector, how local government worked, “who’s who’s in the county” and what Shropshire truly has to offer.

“Far from being a terrible year to be High Sheriff, I feel fortunate to have had a platform to help make a positive difference,” she said.

“I have been warmly welcomed everywhere, my opinion valued, my input appreciated, and my contacts and connections gratefully received.

“I’ve been able to share important information with thousands on social media each week, I’ve been able to personally thank our incredible essential workers as well as so many volunteers and I’ve hopefully encouraged a few more to get involved with these vital activities happening here to help those who are vulnerable and to improve our wonderful county.”

“I rediscovered just what the county has to offer when I was allowed to get out and about when restrictions lifted. I visited more than 16 towns some of which I’d never been to before. There are so many vital services delivered by our voluntary and charity sector organisations, and some really small organisations constantly chasing funding but doing amazing things and seriously changing people’s lives,” she adds.

Mrs Harris’ successor, Tony Morris-Eyton will be officially welcomed in a virtual service on April 9.