Chief executive of Knowsley Chamber of Commerce, Lesley Martin-Wright, has been named as the next High Sheriff of Merseyside. Tony McDonough reports

Knowsley Chamber of Commerce Lesley Martin-Wright is to be the new High Sheriff of Merseyside.

High Sheriffs are the Queen’s representatives in each of the counties of England and Wales. It is a year-long ceremonial post and each Merseyside High Sheriff is chosen by the Queen in her capacity as the Duke of Lancaster.

Lesley, who will succeed the outgoing High Sheriff, Nigel Lanceley, will retain her position as Knowsley Chamber chief executive in a figurehead capacity, while the recently strengthened chamber team will deliver the day-to-day activities of the organisation.

She will be taking a career break from her role as head of business growth and inward investment for Knowsley Council. Born in Northumberland, Lesley lived and worked in Singapore, then London, and moved to Merseyside in 1989. She is married to John, and they have six grandchildren. 

Commissioned as a Deputy Lieutenant for Merseyside in May 2014, and Honorary Colonel of 156 Regiment Royal Logistics Corps in 2017, Lesley says: “It’s a huge honour and immense privilege to be chosen as High Sheriff of Merseyside in a most special year when we celebrate The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

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“I am looking forward to meeting and engaging with the many charities and voluntary organisations who do such tremendous work, and the faith, ethnic, cultural and business communities across Merseyside.”

Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council, added: “I’m delighted that Lesley has been selected as the next High Sheriff of Merseyside. This is a prestigious position and I wish Lesley the very best of luck. From everyone at Knowsley Council, congratulations Lesley.”

Alan Seeley, chairman of Knowsley Chamber, also said: “I am delighted to hear this wonderful news, that I believe will be welcomed and supported by the business community in Knowsley. I look forward to continuing to work with Lesley and the chamber team in the exciting year ahead.”