A High Sherriff is also appointed to each County and City Borough. The office of High Sheriff is an ancient one that dates back nearly 1,000 years. The office is actually the oldest secular office in the UK. The role has changed considerably over the years and is now an honorary appointment. They are distinct from, and not to be confused with, the Lieutenancy because they are the Monarch’s judicial representative in the County, while the Lord-Lieutenant is the Monarch’s personal representative in the County so they take precedence over the High Sheriff.

A High Sheriff is appointed each year and, in Northern Ireland, hold the post for a calendar year. Future High Sheriffs are appointed via nomination from out-going Sheriffs, in consultation with the Lord-Lieutenant and Northern Ireland Office. The appointment is officially made by the Secretary of State on behalf of The King. The incoming High Sheriff is then officially notified by letter and is sent a warrant of appointment signed by the Secretary of State and a ‘declaration of sheriff’, which has to be sworn. The appointment is announced each year in the London Gazette.

During their year in office, The High Sheriff has three main official functions and some additional honorary roles by invitation:

1. To attend High Court Judges when they preside over a case in the County. This role is largely in abeyance
2. To attend the first arrival of any member of the Royal Family in the County on an official visit
3. Proclamation of an Accession following the death of the Monarch.

In addition, the High Sheriff may be asked to attend local civic functions and, in recent years, High Sheriffs have become closely involved with many voluntary sector organisations working in the County.

The High Sheriff of County Tyrone read the Accession Proclamation at High Street, Omagh on 11th September 2022, proclaiming King Charles III as King, following the passing of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.