We are delighted to welcome Linda Steele, from Kilrea, as the new High Sheriff of Co Londonderry. Linda accepted the Chain of Office at a ceremony in Cloonavin in January in the presence of outgoing High Sheriff Peter Wilson.
The role is quite ancient in its origins but the past several decades has seen it being awarded to men and women in recognition of their contribution to their community and County and Linda is a wonderful example of that.
A teacher at Kilrea Primary School, Linda is currently with that all important P6 year. By coincidence the Lord Lieutenant Alison Millar and other DL’s met her class when they all took part in a wonderful UK wide inter-generational ‘Poetry Together’ event.
Along with her educational role Linda has been involved in various rural community groups for many years, serving as President of the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster, Chairman of Rural Youth Europe and European Secretary of the IFYE (International Farm Youth Exchange) organisation which creates opportunities for learning and development around the globe for young people in our rural communities. She continues to be involved with young farmers as Patron of Kilrea YFC, as a competition judge and through the Young Farmers’ Ambassadors alumni, which organises conferences reunions and charity events for its members.
Linda shared how honoured she felt to be appointed as High Sheriff and looks forward to serving communities across the County. Both the Lord Lieutenant Mrs Alison Millar and The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Steven Callaghan, have offered Linda their best wishes in this honorary role and know she will be a fantastic ambassador of the area. The High Sheriff is the formal link between the Judiciary in the County and His Majesty The King.
