Norfolk has a new High Sheriff, and for the first time in the role’s history she has been sworn in over a conference call.

Lady Georgina Roberts, 64, was declared the new High Sheriff of Norfolk, taking up the position from Clare Agnew, Lady Agnew of Oulton, on March 30.

The role of High Sheriff has been part of British society since the 10th century, it was traditionally a role of law and order, protecting judges and collecting taxes but over the centuries it has evolved to become more of a community focussed role.

Normally, the incoming High Sheriff would be would be sworn in at ceremony, but given current social distancing rules and coronavirus lockdown, Lady Roberts was sworn in remotely, a first in the role’s history.

Lady Roberts said: “These are certainly not the circumstances in which I expected to start my time as High Sheriff.

“However, my intention for the role was always to focus on building a strong and safe community. That is more important now than ever before.”

Lady Roberts who lives in Cockley Cley Hall in west Norfolk, said she would be liaising with the police and law enforcement agencies to see what support could be offered during the COVID-19 pandemic, she said: “I will be linking in with the many volunteering services that are already supporting the emergency and medical services as well as seeing how we can boost catering and essential supplies for the medical heroes who are working around the clock.”

Lady Roberts spent her childhood up in rural Wales, she met her husband Samuel Roberts in 1977, after which the couple moved to Mr Roberts’ family home in Clockley Cley.

After moving to Norfolk, Lady Roberts starting work with the Swaffham and Litcham Hospice - which she still does to this day.

She also became the first female Norfolk Chairman of the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) and was made a Deputy Lieutenant in 2013.

An artist and passionate gardener, Lady Roberts and her husband have four children and seven grandchildren.