Sheriff's Ride 7 September 2024

Published: 11 September 2024

On Saturday 7 September, the Sheriff of Lichfield, Cathy Wood, took part in the annual tradition that is the Sheriff’s Ride.

With a close eye on the public purse and the environment, the Sheriff of Lichfield, Cathy Wood and her Consort, Nigel Gann, opted to lead off this year’s Sheriff’s Ride in style aboard the Big Red Bike outside the Guildhall. Pedal power was provided by Big Red Bike volunteers Diane, Catherine & Nigel.

‘The Big Red Bike is a wonderful, inclusive charity which enables those who love cycling - but who may not be able to cycle independently - to experience the thrill of bowling along again with the wind in their hair!’ said Sheriff Cathy.

The remainder of the event, being organised by the Shrievalty Association, went on to complete the ride accompanied by several horse riders & cyclists.

They were later led by the Sword and Mace Bearers back into the city via The Close, where they were welcomed at the Cathedral by The Revd Canon Andrew Stead, to toast the ride with a glass of sherry. The ride then continued via Dam Street and Market Street to the Guildhall

The Sheriff’s Ride is a tradition dating from 1553 when Queen Mary’s Charter separated Lichfield from Staffordshire, making Lichfield ‘a City and a County’ with the right to appoint its own Sheriff. The Charter commanded the Sheriff to make a perambulation to inspect and enforce the city boundary each year. This year marks the 471st Sheriff’s Ride.

For more information regarding the Sheriff’s Ride please visit www.lichfield.gov.uk and www.sheriffoflichfield.org.uk.

Pictured below:

Sheriff of Lichfield, Cathy Wood, Sheriff’s Consort, Nigel Gann, along with members of the ‘Big Red Bike’, Nigel, Diane & Catherine.