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Womble Bond Dickinson (WBD) Senior Counsel, Robert Drewett, has been appointed as the new High Sheriff of Somerset for 2023/24, the first to be appointed under King Charles III.
Robert was appointed at a declaration ceremony at Wells Cathedral in March. The office of high sheriff is the oldest in the country after the Crown and dates back more than 1,000 years. It is an independent, non-political position appointed by the monarchy for a single-year term, and acts as the King’s representative in the county in all things related to the legal system.
In his role, Robert will engage with the many different organisations who contribute to the wellbeing of the residents of Somerset and support local authorities and recognised church and faith groups, taking a leading role in the High Sheriff of Somerset Charitable Trust.
Robert, who has lived in Somerset for most of his life, joined WBD's Bristol office in 2014 and specialises in all aspects of the management and maximisation of rural land assets. He retired as a partner in 2021 but still acts as Senior Counsel on a part time basis.
Speaking about his appointment as High Sheriff, Robert said:
"I am delighted and honoured to add my name to the list of outstanding occupants of the role. In my time as High Sheriff, I look forward to supporting the work of the police, judiciary, probation service and the other emergency services who work hard to keep the people of our county safe.
I'm also keen to connect with charities and other organisations across the County and to learn more about their activities, with a particular interest in what can be done to assist older people and more generally to support the rural community."
As the first High Sheriff since 1978 to live in North East Somerset, Robert is also keen to highlight the charities and other organisations operating in this part of the historic county.
Robert is a trustee of a variety of charities based both in Somerset as well as nationally, with a special connection with the world of agricultural show societies, having chaired the Royal Bath & West of England Society for nearly ten years before stepping down in 2022.
