A Ponteland woman is set to become His Majesty's Lord Lieutenant for Northumberland.

Newly appointed to the role is Dr Caroline Pryer.

Already serving as a Deputy Lieutenant since 2010 and Vice Lord Lieutenant for the county since 2021, she also brings experience from other positions held within the community - including becoming a headteacher in 2003, more recently at Ponteland Community Primary School.

Dr Pryer's community contributions include joining the Armed Forces charity SSAFA Northumberland as a caseworker in 1994, subsequently being appointed as training officer followed by branch secretary, and holding the role of Berwick RNLI chairman twice.

The Duchess of Northumberland, the current Lord Lieutenant, will step down on May 1.

Her Grace, The Duchess of Northumberland said: “It has been a real honour to hold this role which has enabled me to meet some of the most wonderful people in communities right across the county.

“It has been hard to choose a standout moment of the Lieutenancy as there have been so many memorable moments over the years.

“I have been honoured to have welcomed many members of the Royal Family to show them our wonderful county and communities, but the visit of the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip to Alnwick back in 2011 was extremely special."

Glen Sanderson, leader of Northumberland County Council, thanked The Duchess for her unwavering commitment, and welcomed the new Lord Lieutenant.

He said: "Her Grace carried out such valuable work to cherish, thank and shine a spotlight on the many inspirational volunteers and welfare organisations who work tirelessly to help others.

“We extend a very warm welcome to Dr Pryer in her new role and look forward to working with her over the coming years. “

Assuming the mantle from The Duchess, Dr Pryer shares her predecessor's sense of honour and privilege.

She said: "It is a real honour and privilege to succeed Her Grace in this role.

"I am greatly looking forward to working with my Lieutenancy team, Deputy Lieutenants and Vice Lord-Lieutenant, continuing our work with the King’s Award for Voluntary Services and King’s Award for Enterprise and meeting local people and celebrating their valuable contribution to their communities.”