Our own Dr Sarah Furness came to talk to the Whissendine WI about her time as High Sherriff of Rutland form 2016 – 2017. It was fascinating to hear about the history of the role which started in 1129 when the Sheriff was the principal law enforcement officer in the county (think Sheriff of Nottingham and Robin Hood!) but this has changed a lot over the centuries! A High Sherriff is now appointed for a year and Sarah told us about just some of the many fascinating experiences of her very busy year in office. Many events involved raising money for local charities including the Hue and Cry in Oakham High Street and the 10-mile walk across the borders of Rutland and Leicestershire, organised by herself and the High Sherriff of Leicester. She also told of the Sherriff of Rutland Vermont USA visiting who has a very different role to play in his home county!
Sarah concluded by saying how positive she felt at the end of her year as High Sherriff. This is due mainly to meeting with and understanding the role of the many charities in Rutland and contribution the countless volunteers who work tirelessly to help others. We all wished her well for her new role as Lord Lieutenant of Rutland, a role she will have for the next 14 years. Whissendine feels very special in having two successive Lord Lieutenants!