A DISTANT relative of former London Mayor Dick Whittington has been appointed the new High Sheriff of Surrey.

Cobham resident Richard Whittington has taken over from Elizabeth Kennedy. He previously worked for KPMG, a firm providing audit, tax and advisory services, where he was partner-in-charge of the infrastructure, government and healthcare group.

The High Sheriff is appointed by The Queen to hold office for one year as her representative of the judiciary in the county.

As well as actively encouraging those organisations that support law and order throughout Surrey, including the courts, police, prisons, emergency services and supporting statutory and voluntary agencies, he will be working to promote openings to bring young people in to work through apprenticeships, internships and work experience.

Mr Whittington will also be promoting and supporting the work of the High Sheriff Youth Awards in the county, which aim to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour among young people.

He said: “I am very honoured to be given this role and during it I am keen to help young people get into work through apprenticeships, internships and work experience, particularly in the science, technology, engineering and maths areas while I am also looking forward to visiting various organisations throughout Surrey during my year in post.

Mr Whittington has pleaded to support the work of philanthropy, and the charitable and voluntary sectors, all of which play an important role in Surrey.