Explaining the roots of the role of High Sheriff

They were captivated by her velvet coat, lace jabot and ceremonial sword.

The High Sheriff – who also happens to be the Countess of Erroll – was invited by headteacher Aileen Russell who’d attended a garden party at her home, Woodbury Hall.

Lady Erroll told the children about her role and explained how someone becomes a High Sheriff. She said the office is at least 1,000 years old, having its roots in Saxon times before the Norman conquest.

The gathered assembly heard that the High Sheriff once held many of the powers that are now vested in the Lord Lieutenant, High Court judges, magistrates, local authorities and even the Inland Revenue.

Ms Russell said afterwards: “The children were fascinated by the role of High Sheriff, her attire and the impressive sword she showed them.

“It’s really important our children know about local history, as well as the duties and responsibilities such figures have in our society.”