Bhavesh Shah installed as the new High Sheriff of Bedfordshire

Bhavesh Shah (1993-2000) has been installed as the new High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, succeeding former OBM Club President  Russell Beard (1971-80), with the ceremony having taken place at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Luton on Saturday 23 March.

The office of High Sheriff is officially the King's representative for Law and Order in the county and lasts for a period of one year. Dating back to Saxon times, the sheriff (or shire reeve) used to collect the rents and taxes in addition to administering crime prevention, hence the carrying of a sword. Nowadays the role is primarily to shine a light on the charitable and voluntary groups in Bedfordshire.

Russell commented: "I have been enormously proud to serve the county of my birth and have had some amazing experiences - especially meeting so many incredible unsung volunteers across the county. Bhavesh will have a fantastic year in office, he is a really well connected person and of course went to the right school!"

Bhavesh added: "It is an incredible honour to be installed as High Sheriff and I hope that I can offer help to the numerous charities in Bedfordshire through the influence of the office."

Please join us in congratulating Bhavesh on his appointment.