A NEW Vice Lord-Lieutenant has been appointed in Essex.
The King has approved the appointment of Dr James Bettley as Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Essex, succeeding Rear Admiral Roy Clare, who has served in the role since 2022.
The Vice Lord-Lieutenant supports and, when required, stands in for the Lord-Lieutenant, Mrs Jennifer Tolhurst.
Dr Bettley said: "It is a real honour to be asked to serve as Vice Lord-Lieutenant.
Dr Bettley has lived in Great Totham since 1990 with his wife Lucy and has a long record of public service.
He was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant in 2013 and served as High Sheriff in 2019 to 2020.
An architectural historian, Dr Bettley has published several works, including revised editions of the Pevsner Architectural Guides for Essex, Suffolk, and Hertfordshire.
His early career included roles at the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Royal Institute of British Architects, and the Design Museum before becoming a freelance historian in 2000.
He has contributed to numerous heritage organisations and currently chairs Chelmsford Cathedral’s Fabric Advisory Committee and the Grants Committee of the Friends of Essex Churches Trust.
He is also chair of the Rural Community Council of Essex and has served as a magistrate on the North Essex bench since 1996.
Mrs Tolhurst said: "I am delighted that James has agreed to serve as Vice Lord-Lieutenant for the next three years.
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"He brings to the role a great knowledge of Essex and experience of many of its institutions.
"He has been involved as a volunteer in several aspects of Essex life for nearly 30 years and he will be a great support to me in the work that I do.
"I would also like to pay tribute to the retiring Vice Lord-Lieutenant Roy Clare, who has served with distinction since his appointment in 2022."
Mr Clare was praised for his valuable contribution to the events following the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the King's coronation.
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