King Charles picks new Lancashire High Sheriff David Taylor

David Taylor has spent the past 40 years working in some of the county’s top institutions, and will be sworn into the new role later this month.

He takes over from Martin Ainscough, who served as the late Queen Elizabeth II’s final High Sheriff until her death in September.

Mr Taylor is currently chair of the University of Central Lancashire and deputy chair of Preston North End FC, and has also served as a director and chair of the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, and promoted urban regeneration in the county.

He was also a director when Manchester hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2002 and also a director of the Olympic Development Authority, which helped host the 2012 London Games.

He was also made a Commander of the British Empire in 2007 for services to Lancashire and has served as Deputy Lieutenant of the county in 2014.

Martin Ainscough, the previous High Sheriff

The incoming High Sheriff of Lancashire said: “It is a great honour to be appointed High Sheriff of Lancashire, a position that dates back over a millennia.

"I am proud to add my name to the list of outstanding occupants of the role.  In my time as High Sheriff I will work closely with the Police and emergency services supporting the work they do to keep the people of our county safe.

"I will also work closely with and support community groups and the voluntary sector throughout the county.   These groups help to sustain our diverse county and cohesion between our communities."

The historic role of High Sheriff dates back more than 1,000 years and is personally appointed annually by the reigning monarch.

Their role is to be the King's representative in the county, overseeing all matters relating to the judiciary and the maintenance of law and order.

The office of High Sheriff is held for one year. It is purely voluntary and does not receive any salary or expenses.