Wiltshire’s new high sheriff was sworn in this week in a ceremony that dates back as far as Saxon times.

Far from the usual ceremony, Sir Charles Hobhouse Bt. Received a virtual declaration and acceptance, hosted by the outgoing high sheriff, major general, Ashley Truluck.

Sir Charles is from Monkton Farleigh, near Bradford-on-Avon, where he runs a wildlife friendly mixed farming estate.

Outgoing high sherriff, Ashley Tuluck

Outgoing high sherriff, Ashley Tuluck

Sir Charles said: “It is a great honour to become High Sheriff of Wiltshire for 2021/22. 

“During my year I hope to visit many local charities throughout Wiltshire and Swindon.

“My main theme will be the care of people with mental health issues, particularly the young, and how to better include them in mainstream society.

“I will also be taking a strong interest in wildlife conservation and the environment”.

The new high sheriff has previously lived in Australia and extensively travelled Africa and South American.

As well as farming, Sir Charles is involved with various wildlife groups and individuals who keep records of birds, butterflies, dragonflies, moths and bats present.

He is currently chairman of the Wiltshire Country Landowners Association. He is married to Annette, who is from New South Wales, and they have two boys aged 11 and nine.