Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadets

“Through the role I was able to see the important work that you and many others conduct as Lord Lieutenants. I was struck by your selfless commitment to the people of Hertfordshire and to the plethora of charitable organisations that your office strives to recognise and reward.

The past year has enlightened me to the integral role of charities and youth organisations within the county. Having attended events across Hertfordshire, I have been both impressed and humbled by the unwavering effort of the so many volunteers that make me proud to be a member of this community. 

Some of my highlights from the year include:

Meeting HRH the Countess of Wessex and TRH the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in the same week was a great experience . 

The Commonwealth service at St Albans Cathedral with the opportunity to meet High Commissioners – a brilliant day despite the icy weather.

Your attendance at the 10 year amalgamation parade held at CTC Bassingbourn was especially appreciated as you awarded me with two of the highest Army cadet achievements.

A particularly memorable day was when HRH the Earl of Wessex came to the University of Hertfordshire, it was a privilege to be seated next to him at lunch and I can still recall the sweltering heat we endured in our uniforms that day. 

The visit to the Herts Samaritans annual meeting will stay with me. Mental Health awareness is an especially important subject to me and I hope to follow their example in working to destigmatize it and help those who are afflicted.

Finally, the Remembrance parade at Haileybury and the chance to meet Field Marshal Sir John Chapple was a fitting end to what was an amazing year.

As I retire, I have absolutely no doubt that S/SGT Williams will serve you well as my successor. I, however will remain unequivocally busy with my A level exams in June (for which I am predicted three A* grades) and University thereafter to read History. Whilst I cannot fathom what my future holds, I hope that I will one day be able to contribute to our county and country in the way that you and many others do. 

Please pass on my best wishes to the Vice-Lord Lieutenant, Siobhan and the Deputy Lieutenants for their commitment and kindness. 

I am honoured to have served as the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet and I can genuinely say that it has been a pleasure to represent Hertfordshire alongside you and the other Lord lieutenant’s Cadets. I will carry the experiences and conversations I’ve had over the past year with me for the rest of my life. “