THE new High Sheriff of North Yorkshire has been appointed in a ceremony at York Crown Court.

Linda Fenwick, a designer who grew up in Texas and is married to James Fenwick, of Fenwick department store, began her year-long term in the ancient role on April 17.

The office dates back to Anglo-Saxon times and, in the Middle Ages, the holder was responsible for ensuring the safety of visiting judges and the administration of the courts - even organising executions.

Today, the High Sheriff's work still centres on supporting the judiciary and, more broadly, the emergency services and local charities.

She aims to raise awareness for Bully UK, which focuses on bullying and online safety under the umbrella of the charity Family Lives.

She said: "I am greatly honoured to have been appointed to this role and look forward to my year, to see first-hand what the remarkable and caring people of North Yorkshire do every day and lend support where I can."