Dignitaries appointed to Deputy Lieutenant roles

The new Deputy Lieutenants will help the Lord-Lieutenant with his duties throughout the year and were appointed to the role by Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Mr Ian James Dudson CBE KStJ

Mr Dudson is the Queen’s representative in the County and made the presentations at the first of two special events at Staffordshire County Council’s County Buildings in Stafford on May 9.

The list of Deputy Lieutenants includes Mrs Julie Arkle of Newcastle-under-Lyme,Brigadier Simon Bell QVRM of Stone, Mr Charles Hawley of Colton, Rugeley and Mrs Joan Walley - Ostrowski of Stoke on Trent.

The Lord-Lieutenant said “It is a great pleasure to welcome Staffordshire’s new Deputy Lieutenants.

"They have all been selected because of their roles within their communities and I am sure they will do an excellent job”

Those appointed to the role have spoken of their delight.

Brigadier Simon Bell said, “Having served my country for 33 years as an officer in the British Army, I am honoured to be given the opportunity to serve the County of Staffordshire and look forward to supporting Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant.”

Mrs Joan Walley – Ostrowski said: I'm very proud that my public service over 28 years has been recognised and I am honoured to be asked to support the work of the Lord-Lieutenant across Staffordshire."

Deputy Lieutenants represent the Lord Lieutenant in his or her absence, including at local ceremonies and official events, from opening exhibitions to inductions of vicars.

They are also called upon to use their experience and knowledge to make informed recommendations regarding nominations for honours as well as proposing deserving candidates for invitation to a Royal Garden Party.

They may also provide suggestions in relation to suitable voluntary and professional enterprises that they feel should qualify for a Royal visit.