Last updated 11:08, Thursday, 20 November 2008

A WHITFIELD landowner has been appointed the new High Sheriff for Northumberland.

New high sheriff: John Blackett-Ord.

John Hamilton Blackett-Ord, of Whitfield Hall, took his place in history during a nomination ceremony in London that dates back to Saxon times.

The post is staying in Tynedale, for he will succeed the Hon. Charles Richard Beaumont, of Hexham as high sheriff.

Mr Blackett-Ord will assume office next year and become one of the latest holders of the oldest continuous secular office under the Crown in Britain.

In one of the most ancient official ceremonies still practiced in this country, dating back more than 1,000 years, judges and court officials gathered at London's High Court, some wearing wigs and court clothing designed centuries ago, in order to preside over the formal nomination of Mr Blackett-Ord and 50 other high sheriffs and their deputies from all over England and Wales.

Though the role goes unpaid, high sheriffs rank among top dignitaries in their areas.

They are expected to attend at royal visits to their counties, as well as being entitled to act as returning officers in Parliamentary elections.

They also have a responsibility for the well-being and protection of High Court Judges when on circuit in the county.

Before Mr Blackett-Ord takes up office next March, another ancient ceremony will also take place, this time at the Privy Council in London.

There the Queen, using a silver bodkin in a practice dating back to the reign of Queen Victoria, will prick his name on a parchment list to give his appointment the Royal seal of approval.