The office of High Sheriff of Somerset is an ancient shrievalty which has been in existence since the 11th century. Originally known as the "Sheriff of Somerset", the role was retitled on 1 April 1974, under the provisions of the Local Government Act 1972."Sheriffs appointed for a county or Greater London shall be known as high sheriffs, and any reference in any enactment or instrument to a sheriff shall be construed accordingly in relation to sheriffs for a county or Greater London." ()
The position of sheriff was once a powerful one, the holders being responsible for collecting taxes and enforcing law and order in Somerset, a county in South West England. In modern times the sheriff has become a ceremonial officer of the Crown, attending or presiding over many public events. Until 1567 the Sheriff of Somerset was also Sheriff of Dorset.
In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland the high sheriff is theoretically the sovereign's judicial representative in the county, while the lord-lieutenant is the sovereign's personal representative. Their jurisdictions, the "shrieval counties", are no longer co-terminous with administrative areas, representing a mix between the ancient counties and more recent local authority areas. The post is unpaid, except for a small court attendance allowance, and the general expenses of the office are borne personally by the holder.Privy Council public information website Eligibility for nomination and appointment of high sheriffs is controlled by the Sheriffs Act 1887.
The current high sheriff is Peter Dixon.
Sheriffs of Somerset 11th century Godwine 1066-1068 Tovid or Tofig 1083-1086 William de Moyon
Sheriffs of Somerset and Dorset
11th and 12th century
13th century
14th century
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15th century
16th century
Sheriffs of Somerset
16th and 17th century
18th century
19th century
20th century
High Sheriff of Somerset
20th century
21st century
References