Thetford faces joined High Sheriffs and representatives from the legal and emergency services at Norwich Cathedral for the Justice Service for the County of Norfolk.
Jo Pearson hosting Norfolk’s Justice Service. Image © Ray J Thompson
The service was hosted by Thetford resident Jo Pearson DL, the first person from the town to serve as High Sheriff of Norfolk, on Sunday 18th October. Jo was joined in the High Sheriff’s procession by his wife Mandy and visiting High Sheriffs and consorts from Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Rutland and Somerset. The Bishop of Thetford also took part alongside visiting clergy, the Bishop of East Anglia, Canon Bob Baker – Chaplain to the High Sheriff, Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk General the Lord Dannatt and Mrs Justice Arbuthnot.
Other sections of the procession included representatives from Norfolk’s magistrates, police, fire and probation services, HMP Bure, Norfolk County Council and the legal profession. The Lord Mayor, Sheriff and Under Sheriff of Norwich also attended alongside Terry Jermy MP.
The service recognised the work of those involved in administering justice and maintaining law and order across the county. Music was provided by the Cathedral Chamber Choir, directed by Graham Thorpe, with Christopher Too playing the organ.
The setting also carried a historic connection to Thetford. Norwich Cathedral was founded in 1096 after Bishop Herbert de Losinga moved the seat of the Diocese from Thetford to Norwich.
The office of High Sheriff is more than 1,000 years old and remains an independent, non-political role. Its duties include supporting the judiciary and taking an interest in the work of the police, prisons, probation and voluntary organisations.
