THE chair of Fortalice has been personally appointed by the Queen as the next High Sheriff of Greater Manchester.

Diane Hawkins was formally announced by Buckingham Palace as the new High Sheriff for Greater Manchester.

She will be installed as High Sheriff on Sunday, April 18, at a Service of Thanksgiving at Bolton Parish Church.

Retired solicitor Diane has played a part in the voluntary sector across Greater Manchester for the last 20 years, through various charitable organisations. Diane has also been a Deputy Lieutenant since 2008.

She succeeds the current High Sheriff, Eamonn O’Neal, and said: “It is a great honour and a privilege to be appointed High Sheriff by Her Majesty the Queen.

"I shall be proud to represent Her Majesty’s interests as the ceremonial head of the judiciary in the county.”

“During the coming year, it will be important to do all that I can to open doors for everyone, particularly in the voluntary sector, as we start to rebuild after the devastation of Covid 19.

"This is an enormous challenge and an exciting opportunity which I am delighted to have.

"Eamonn will be a hard act to follow as he has demonstrated his ingenuity in being High Sheriff during the pandemic.

"But I’m excited to continue his good work and will enjoy putting my own spin on the role. ”

Diane has been on the board of Bolton-based Fortalice for many years and succeeded former chair Gill Smallwood when she was appointed Chief Executive in 2011.

A JP since 2005, Diane was originally appointed to the Bolton bench. She now sits solely in the Family Court and is currently the deputy chair of Greater Manchester Family Panel.

During her year of office as High Sheriff, she will be on leave of absence from the judiciary.

The role of High Sheriff is the oldest secular title in British history, dating back more than 1,300 years, and one of the world's longest-established posts.

Diane will represent The Queen’s interests, which will cover the judiciary, the police and law enforcement and the emergency services.

Alongside this, and close to Diane’s heart, the High Sheriff supports and recognises all aspects of the voluntary sector.