Former Hastings MP is appointedas new High Sheriff of East Sussex

Former Hastings and Rye MP Michael Foster has been appointed High Sheriff of East Sussex.
By The Newsroom
Published 30th Mar 2016, 12:00 BST
Updated 8th Jun 2018, 00:02 BST

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Michael Foster SUS-160330-104115001Michael Foster SUS-160330-104115001
Michael Foster SUS-160330-104115001

Mr Foster took part in a Declaration ceremony at the Crown Court in Lewes on the March 22, alongside the new High Sheriff of West Sussex, Mark Spofforth.

The historic role is over 1000 years old, the first High Sheriffs being tax collectors for the monarch.

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Present day High Sheriffs are independent, apolitical and unpaid. During their year of office they are required to support the Queen and other Royals when they visit the county, assist the judiciary on ceremonial occasions, work with the Police and help raise the profile of charities and voluntary organisations. The Queen selects those appointed to the role by “pricking” their names on a list with a silver bodkin.

Mr Foster was the first ever Labour MP for Hastings and Rye for 13 years. He has served as a Deputy Lieutenant of the County since 1993. He is active in the voluntary sector, being President of the Hastings and Rother British Legion, President of Hastings Mencap, a Trustee of St Michael’s Hospice and also the Magdalen and Lasher Trust.

He said: “I am very honoured to have been chosen to represent our beautiful County in this way. The role is not political but we can use our influence to bring people together and raise the profile of those working in the voluntary sector. My wife Rosemary and I would hope to focus on supporting organisations dealing with homelessness, substance abuse and mental health, many of which are often connected.”

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Related topics:HastingsRyeLewes