KENT'S new High Sheriff Amanda Cottrell chose to be installed at the parish church in her home village of Challock, near Ashford.

She wanted members of her local community to be included in the ceremony, along VIPs and family and friends.

Records show that the first High Sheriff of Kent was appointed in 952. In those days people in the role enjoyed vast powers, including commanding people to fight for the King.

Nowadays, the post is almost entirely ceremonial although High Sheriffs are still charged with assisting and protecting visiting judges to the county.

At Sunday's ceremony, fully wigged senior Judge Judge Andrew Patience reflected on the significance of the position in the history of England.

He welcomed Mrs Cottrell and said she would bring distinction to the office. He also praised the work of the outgoing High Sheriff, Andrew Wells.

FULL STORY IN THIS WEEK'S KENTISH EXPRESS