Somerset has a new Vice Lord-Lieutenant, following the retirement of Ted Allen from the role.
Robert Drewett has replaced Ted Allen | Photo © B&NES Council
Robert “Robbie” Drewett, who lives in the Mendips above the Chew Valley, has been appointed to the position after two decades of service as a Deputy Lieutenant.
Mr Drewett succeeds Mr Allen, who has served as Vice Lord-Lieutenant for the past three years and has now stepped down on reaching the Lieutenancy retirement age of 75.
Speaking about his appointment, Mr Drewett said: “It is a great honour to be appointed as Vice Lord- Lieutenant and I very much look forward to working alongside the Lord- Lieutenant in helping further the work of the Lieutenancy in Somerset.
“Ted Allen has done a fantastic job during his time as Vice Lord-Lieutenant and set the bar high but I will do my best to build on the high standards set by him.”
Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, Mohammed Saddiq, praised both the incoming and outgoing post-holders.
He said: “I am delighted to welcome Robbie Drewett as the next Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, bringing with him a distinguished legal career and decades of devoted service to the county’s civic and charitable life.
“His exceptional leadership across agricultural, charitable, and community organisations – alongside his long-standing commitment as a Deputy Lieutenant and former High Sheriff – will be of immense value in this new role.
“I would also like to thank Ted Allen for his service as Vice Lord-Lieutenant for the past three years. I am truly grateful for the exceptional support and service he has provided and he will be greatly missed.”
Reflecting on his time with the Lieutenancy, Mr Allen said his years in office had been a privilege.
He said: “I have been a part of Somerset Lieutenancy for sixteen years and it has truly been an absolute pleasure. But my last three years as Vice Lord-Lieutenant have been the most huge privilege.
“To work closely in support of the Lord-Lieutenant, welcome our Royal visitors and have the opportunity to meet so many charities and volunteers who work tirelessly to help others and their communities has been the most remarkable and humbling experience.”
