The High Sheriff of Tyne and Wear visits Northern Counties School

The High Sheriff of Tyne and Wear, David W Bavaird, paid a visit to children at Northern Counties School to teach us all about the history and role of a High Sheriff.

There have been High Sheriffs for at least 1,000 years. The appointment is actually the oldest in our country. The original ‘Shire Reeves’ were Royal Officials appointed to enforce the King’s interests in a County, in particular the collection of revenues and the enforcement of law and order.

Many of the early Sherriff’s of Northumberland came from well know Northumbrian families, Armstrong, Delaval, Percy, Grey, Bewick, and Collingwood.

The children were even able to teach the High Sheriff that our very own Armstrong Department is originally named after the Armstrong family, who made a financial donation to what was Northern Counties School for the Deaf, back in the 1800s. Lord Armstrong of Cragside was a high sheriff in 1899.

The High Sheriff was also able to enjoy a brilliant performance from our Signing Choir!