The new High Sheriff of Essex, Mrs Jennifer Tolhurst was installed on March 31 2005.

An accomplished artist who has served on fundraising committees for charities at county and national level, including the NSPCC, Jennifer Tolhurst was born on December 2nd 1951 in Portadown, Northern Ireland, the daughter of Brigadier DL Ormerod CBE. Married to a leading Essex solicitor, Philip John Tolhurst, the new High Sheriff has three children Jeremy (31), Rosanna (30) and Patrick (24).

Mrs Tolhurst has been a board member of the Prince’s Youth Business Trust Essex and from 1994 to 1997 was chairman of Prince’s Youth Business Trust.

In 1998 she was appointed as a magistrate to the Mid Essex bench.

As an artist Jennifer Tolhurst has specialised in the Essex coastline and held exhibitions at Brick lane, London E2, Geedon Gallery, Fingeringhoe, Life Gallery, Colchester, Hay Gallery, Colchester, The Digby Gallery, Colchester and Oakwood House Gallery, Maldon Jennifer Tolhurst is a lady associate member of the Royal Yacht Squadron and a member of Royal Thames Yacht club since 1980.

The county's High Sheriff is appointed directly by the Queen and the term of office equates roughly to the tax year. Names of suitable people who might wish to hold this office are gathered and considered by a small committee within Essex before being submitted to the Privy Council and ultimately to Her Majesty.

With a county as large and diverse as Essex, considerable time must be devoted to the duties of High Sheriff and the incumbent of this most ancient office is expected to take a close interest in the overall judicial system within the county.

With extensive other duties both towards civic functions and the host of voluntary and charity workers there is never a dull or uninspiring moment. The annual appointment carries no remuneration or expenses.

Further information about the duties and role of the High Sheriff can be found at

www.shrievalty-association.org.uk

• The present holder of the office of High Sheriff of Essex, Andrew Streeter.
  

Read about the former High Sheriff

Find out more about the post of High Sheriff