The annual Legal Service acknowledges those early powers to administer justice and keep the peace.
The office of High Sheriff dates back to Anglo-Saxon times and, although the functions of the shrieval system have changed dramatically over the centuries, the annual Legal Service acknowledges those early powers to administer justice and keep the peace. It is a thanksgiving service 'for our freedom under the law, the Queen's peace and our national heritage'.
This year's service, organised by High Sheriff William Burlington, took place at the Cathedral Church of All Saints in Derby on 13th October and was attended by the Lord-Lieutenant of Derbyshire William Tucker and Mrs Tucker, the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, The Hon Mr Justice Baker and The Hon Mrs Justice Andrews, county dignitaries and representatives of local organisations. It was preceded by a reception and luncheon at Derby Museum & Art Gallery.
A fanfare by the Auric Brass Ensemble began the service and was followed by the Processional Hymn, during which the Cathedral Procession and the High Sheriff's Procession of Justices of the Peace, Judges and High Sheriffs of neighbouring counties moved to their places.
The Revd Canon Dr Elizabeth Thomson, Acting Dean, led the service with the Revd Canon David Perkins, Vicar of Beeley and Edensor and Chaplain to the High Sheriff, preaching the Sermon. Lessons were read by long-serving police officer PC Andy Sudbury and the Revd Julio Abraham, Chief Executive of Derby City Mission. The Ven Carol Coslett, Archdeacon of Chesterfield, led the prayers and the Blessing was given by the Rt Reverend Libby Lane, Bishop of Derby. Following a rousing delivery of the National Anthem, the congregation exited to a stirring performance of Walton's classical Crown Imperial march, before enjoying tea and cakes served by the Derbyshire Federation of Women's Institutes. u
