A NEW high sheriff of North Yorkshire has been appointed.

Reverend Rachel Benson, who lives near Malton, officially took over the role today (Friday, March 22) when she took the oath of office at York Crown Court.

The role of high sheriff is an ancient appointment made annually by the Queen.

They carry out a number of judicial and ceremonial functions and also act as the returning officer for parliamentary elections.

Rev Benson said: “I am greatly looking forward to my year in office and to meeting and serving the people of North Yorkshire in every possible way. It is a great honour to have been nominated to this ancient and important office”.

Rev Benson spent some of her childhood at Great Ayton and has lived near Malton for the last 15 years with her family.