I was privileged to meet many amazing people during my Brussels’ travels with such interesting histories and experiences, and some with titles that I didn’t know still existed.

The High Sheriff of Herefordshire, Nat Hone, delivered a speech in font of the exhibition, where he praised the students for their hard work and congratulated Anthea for securing a space in Parliament for such a special display.

He also acknowledged that there may be some people unsure of his title in the crowd. He said: “When you imagine a Sheriff, you may think of a Western cartoon or a man on a horse.”

The position of Sheriff is the oldest secular office under the Crown, second to the Monarchy, and has existed since the 9th century. Formerly, the Sheriff was the principal law enforcement officer in each county, but over the centuries most of the post’s responsibilities have been transferred elsewhere or are now defunct. The remaining functions are now, largely, ceremonial.

As well as High Sheriff, Nat Hone was Treasurer, and is now lay chair of Bosbury PCC; a member of the Ledbury Deanery Synod and its standing committee, and a member of Diocesan Synod and the Diocesan Board of Finance, where he chairs the Investment Advisory Group.

He is also chair of the Bosbury Parish Hall committee and chair of Governors of The Elms School in Colwall on the edge of the County.

Nat Hone follows his Mother in the office of High Sheriff, who held the position between 2000-2001.

I was intrigued by the history of the prestigious post, and it is interesting to see how occupations have adapted and evolved over 100s of years. From a duty that once could involve leading continents at the Battle of Hastings, the High Sheriff activities are mostly ceremonial.

What do you think about the position of High Sheriff and its place in modern society? Let me know your thoughts; get in touch with [email protected].