Sheriff's Ride - 6 September 2025
Published: 10 September 2025
On Saturday 6 September, the Sheriff of Lichfield, Revd Ian Hayter, took part in the annual tradition that is the Sheriff’s Ride.
Led by the Clerk of the Course, Nick Sedgwick, the Sheriff, Revd Ian Hayter was applauded as he left the Guildhall on horseback.
The remainder of the event, being organised by the Lichfield Shrievalty Association, went on to complete a full ride starting at Freeford Manor, via Maple Hayes and back into the city 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, 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 472nd Sheriff’s Ride. The Sheriff said 'I am honoured to have taken part in the historic tradition that is the Sheriff's Ride. It was a thoroughly enjoyable day that I will never forget. I would particularly like to thank the Clerk of the Course and Lichfield Shrievalty Association together with the landowners, along with officers of Lichfield City Council and many, many others who made this day so special. The Sheriff's Ride is one of the most historic events in Lichfield. Long may it continue!'
For more information regarding the Sheriff’s Ride please visit www.lichfield.gov.uk and www.sheriffoflichfield.org.uk.
