ONE OF THE North East’s most prominent business leader has been appointed to the ceremonial role of High Sheriff of Tyne & Wear.
John Mowbray OBE, was honoured with the royal appointment for 2016/17 at a ceremony in St Peter’s Church in Sunderland last week.
In line with the historic role which has been in existence for over 1,000 years, the ceremony saw guests enter the church via the historic 7th century tower and was followed by a reception at the National Glass Centre.
Today, there are 55 High Sheriffs in England and Wales whose role is to support the crown, the judiciary and emergency service, while also promoting the voluntary sector in their county.
John, from Sunderland, retired from Northumbrian Water in August 2012 where he was Director of Corporate Affairs and he was awarded an OBE for services to the water industry and charity in June 2012. He is still active in a number of areas including in his current roles as Deputy Chairman of the University of Sunderland and Co-Chairman of the North East Cultural Partnership.
He also chairs the Foundation of Light Development Board as well as the Percy Hedley Foundation Appeal Committee and is a member of the Northumbrian WaterAid Fundraising Committee which he previously chaired for 16 years. He has always been heavily involved in the wider community including his role as President of the North East Chamber of Commerce from 2011-13, Chairman of Durham City Vision and Vice Chairman of NewcastleGateshead Initiative amongst others.
John, who is non-executive director at Narrative Integrated Communications in Sunderland, said: “In days gone by, the sheriffs collected taxes, raised the hue and cry and administered justice, but things have changed and it’s more about working with the organisations that keep us safe such as the judiciary, police, fire and other services.”
The High Sheriff also helps raise funds for the High Sheriffs Fund which sits with the Community Foundation for Tyne & Wear and Northumberland and last month nearly £40,000 was distributed to over 60 community groups across Tyne & Wear.
John’s theme for the year will be a focus on literacy amongst young people and he will work with Schools North East and others to identify opportunities to help children reach their potential.
John said of the occasion: “It was a very proud moment for me and it is a great honour. I am looking forward to meeting the services and community organisations which support our society.”