Mark Hurrell has been installed as the new High Sheriff following his public declaration at Gloucester's Cathedral on Sunday.

The role, which is largely ceremonial, has been in existence for over a thousand years and is a Crown appointment.

Mark appeared on Punchline's Business Breakfast Briefers show this morning. 

Mark, who lives in Gloucester, said: "I'm really honoured to be appointed and I'm looking forward to supporting the blue light services, the judiciary and the volunteers who do so much to make the county tick."

The role is for a year and names for selection are put forward to the Privy Council by a local group known as the Shrievalty Committee. There is no remuneration and post holders have to live in the county.

Mark takes over from Henry Robinson who lives near Cirencester.

Mark, who has lived in the city for over 30 years, used to run BBC Radio Gloucestershire and had a long and varied career in the media.

He's a long-standing season ticket holder at Kingsholm and is active with numerous local charities including The Honourable Company of Gloucestershire. He was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant in 2017.

There is a High Sheriff in every county in England and Wales, and their history and tradition goes back to Saxon times

The office is the oldest Royal appointment. The 'shire reeve' was responsible to the Regent for the maintenance of law and order within a "shire" or county and for the collection of taxes.

The modern day High Sheriff has a very different role and function to that of his or her ancient ancestors, and although largely ceremonial ,still plays an important role in our 21st century society. Fifty five new Sheriffs are appointed each year. The post is for 12 months.