High Sheriff of Cumbria

Historically, the High Sheriff was the principal law enforcement officer in the county, but over the centuries most of the responsibilities associated with the post have been transferred elsewhere or no longer exist. Now its official functions are largely ceremonial.

The Office of High Sheriff is an independent, non-political and unpaid Royal appointment for a single year. A nomination ceremony is held each November in the Royal Courts of Justice. Three names are put forward for the Office of High Sheriff in each county and one of them is selected by the Sovereign at a subsequent meeting of the Privy Council. The appointed name is "pricked with a bodkin" - in which the Sovereign pierces the chosen name on a piece of parchement with a needle-like instrument  

Today's duties include attendance at Royal Visits to the county, and escorting High Court Judges on circuit in the county.

Whilst the duties of the role have evolved over time, supporting the Crown and the Judiciary remain central elements of the role today. 

In addition, High Sheriffs actively lend support and encouragement to crime prevention agencies, the emergency services and to the voluntary sector.

In recent years High Sheriffs in many parts of England and Wales have been particularly active in encouraging crime reduction initiatives, especially among young people.

Many High Sheriffs also assist Community Foundations and local charities working with vulnerable and other people both in endorsing and helping to raise the profile of their valuable work. The High Sheriff Association adopted DebtCred and Crimebeat in recent years in response to specific areas of need.

For further information about the role and history of the High Sheriff please visit the High Sheriff's Association

The current High Sheriff

The High Sheriff of Cumbria for 2025/26 is Dr Geoff Jolliffe.

To find out more, visit the High Sheriff of Cumbria website.