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Deputy Lieutenants

The Lord-Lieutenant appoints a number of Deputy Lieutenants. The Deputy Lieutenants are chosen from a wide variety of backgrounds and provide specialist local knowledge to the Lord-Lieutenant, assisting her in performing her duties and advising her on issues in the community to bring about closer links. The number of Deputy Lieutenants is in proportion to the population of the County, and they are drawn from different walks of life and from different parts of the County. There are currently 30 active Deputy Lieutenants across the Bedfordshire Lieutenancy.

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Colonel Sidney Anthony Abrahams TD DL
Biography

Anthony (Tony) was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2007. Anthony sits as a Deputy District Judge in Bedford and Luton County Courts. He chaired Bedford College Academies Trust and led its merger with Knowledge Schools Trust where he remains a trustee and was a Governor of Bedford School. Anthony served in the Territorial Army for 30 years rising to Deputy Commander 49 (E) Brigade which included Bedfordshire. He was mobilised for a 6 month tour in Iraq where he was awarded a Bronze Star for his service.
 
Following his time in Iraq Anthony became interested in understanding conflict, conflict avoidance, conflict management and conflict resolution. He was Director General of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators for 8 years and developed an expertise in charity governance and management.
 
Anthony served as County Commander St John's Ambulance and is an active member of the Bedfordshire committee of the Army Benevolent Fund as well as a Past President of Bedfordshire Royal British Legion.

 

Anthony (Tony) was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2007. Anthony sits as a Deputy District Judge in Bedford and Luton County Courts. He chaired Bedford College Academies Trust and led its merger with Knowledge Schools Trust where he remains a trustee and was a Governor of Bedford School. Anthony served in the Territorial Army for 30 years rising to Deputy Commander 49 (E) Brigade which included Bedfordshire. He was mobilised for a 6 month tour in Iraq where he was awarded a Bronze Star for his service.
 
Following his time in Iraq Anthony became interested in understanding conflict, conflict avoidance, conflict management and conflict resolution. He was Director General of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators for 8 years and developed an expertise in charity governance and management.
 
Anthony served as County Commander St John's Ambulance and is an active member of the Bedfordshire committee of the Army Benevolent Fund as well as a Past President of Bedfordshire Royal British Legion.

 
Mr Hannan Ali DL
Biography

Hannan is currently a Funding Manager at City Bridge Foundation, a 900-year-old bridge-owning charity and London’s largest independent funder, where he works on various place-based grantmaking programmes covering a range of thematic areas from tackling exploitation and building inclusive services to growing sector infrastructure and creating a greener London. He was previously a Grants and Programmes Manager at the Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation where he worked on donor-advised funds, national funding programmes, an endowed historic trust, and helped deliver the emergency and recovery response to the Covid-19 pandemic across the County by organising weekly funding panels and assessing proposals. He represented the foundation on the UKCF EDI and Funders for Race Equality Alliance Steering Groups.

Hannan graduated from the University of Greenwich in 2014 with a 2:1 in BA Business Management and over the past 10 years has gained experience across community development, international development, small business management, philanthropy, and grantmaking. He has mentored young people from diverse backgrounds both locally with Chiltern Learning Trust Schools, and nationally with organisations such as The Diana Award. In Luton, he has volunteered with Unleashing Potential, Peace Garden Initiative, Luton Foodbank, Community Interest Luton, Inspire FM, Madinah Mosque, Salvation Army, and several other charities. He continues to engage with local social initiatives and participates in decision-making panels.

Hannan is currently a Funding Manager at City Bridge Foundation, a 900-year-old bridge-owning charity and London’s largest independent funder, where he works on various place-based grantmaking programmes covering a range of thematic areas from tackling exploitation and building inclusive services to growing sector infrastructure and creating a greener London. He was previously a Grants and Programmes Manager at the Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation where he worked on donor-advised funds, national funding programmes, an endowed historic trust, and helped deliver the emergency and recovery response to the Covid-19 pandemic across the County by organising weekly funding panels and assessing proposals. He represented the foundation on the UKCF EDI and Funders for Race Equality Alliance Steering Groups.

Hannan graduated from the University of Greenwich in 2014 with a 2:1 in BA Business Management and over the past 10 years has gained experience across community development, international development, small business management, philanthropy, and grantmaking. He has mentored young people from diverse backgrounds both locally with Chiltern Learning Trust Schools, and nationally with organisations such as The Diana Award. In Luton, he has volunteered with Unleashing Potential, Peace Garden Initiative, Luton Foodbank, Community Interest Luton, Inspire FM, Madinah Mosque, Salvation Army, and several other charities. He continues to engage with local social initiatives and participates in decision-making panels.
Mr Ismail Anilmis DL
Biography

Mr Ismail Anilmis began his journey as Deputy Lieutenant in March 2021. Presently serving as the Vice President and member of the Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends fundraising committee, he also holds the position of Trustee at the Ronald McDonald House in Oxford (RMHC). Ismail's previous roles include Director of Bedford College Services, Director of Bedford Bid, and his tenure as President and Chairman of Leighton United Football Club, an honorary membership he still holds today. He is fuelled by a passion for supporting local communities, driving charitable endeavours, and supporting local sporting organisations.

Mr Ismail Anilmis began his journey as Deputy Lieutenant in March 2021. Presently serving as the Vice President and member of the Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends fundraising committee, he also holds the position of Trustee at the Ronald McDonald House in Oxford (RMHC). Ismail's previous roles include Director of Bedford College Services, Director of Bedford Bid, and his tenure as President and Chairman of Leighton United Football Club, an honorary membership he still holds today. He is fuelled by a passion for supporting local communities, driving charitable endeavours, and supporting local sporting organisations.

Professor Dame Helen Atkinson DBE FREng DL
Biography

Dame Helen was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2022. She has been Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Cranfield University's School of Aerospace, Transport and Manufacturing since 2017.

Professor Atkinson was made CBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours 2014 and DBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours 2021 for services to Engineering and Education. She is a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, the highest honour for an engineer in the UK.

Helen was the first woman President of the Engineering Professors’ Council (the body which represents engineering in universities throughout the UK) in its 50-year history and has also served as a Vice President and Trustee of the Royal Academy of Engineering. In 2010 she won a national award as a Woman of Outstanding Achievement in Science, Engineering and Technology for ‘Leadership and Inspiration to Others’. She has been a Visiting Professor at a number of universities across the world and was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Liège for her international standing as a metallurgist and materials scientist.

Helen has a First-Class degree in Natural Sciences from Cambridge and a PhD from Imperial College. She is a Chartered Engineer, a Fellow of the Institution of Materials, Minerals and Mining, a Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society.

For six years, Helen chaired the multi-million pound ‘This is Engineering’ project for the Royal Academy of Engineering, a social media campaign sponsored by a series of major industrial partners which aims to encourage more young people to consider engineering as a career.

Dame Helen was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2022. She has been Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Cranfield University's School of Aerospace, Transport and Manufacturing since 2017.

Professor Atkinson was made CBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours 2014 and DBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours 2021 for services to Engineering and Education. She is a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, the highest honour for an engineer in the UK.

Helen was the first woman President of the Engineering Professors’ Council (the body which represents engineering in universities throughout the UK) in its 50-year history and has also served as a Vice President and Trustee of the Royal Academy of Engineering. In 2010 she won a national award as a Woman of Outstanding Achievement in Science, Engineering and Technology for ‘Leadership and Inspiration to Others’. She has been a Visiting Professor at a number of universities across the world and was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Liège for her international standing as a metallurgist and materials scientist.

Helen has a First-Class degree in Natural Sciences from Cambridge and a PhD from Imperial College. She is a Chartered Engineer, a Fellow of the Institution of Materials, Minerals and Mining, a Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society.

For six years, Helen chaired the multi-million pound ‘This is Engineering’ project for the Royal Academy of Engineering, a social media campaign sponsored by a series of major industrial partners which aims to encourage more young people to consider engineering as a career.

Dr Joan Bailey MBE JP FRSA DL
Biography

Joan was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2021 and has been a Magistrate for over 25 years. Joan teaches at the University of Bedfordshire and undertakes huge amounts of voluntary work. She is the Director of the Safer Luton Partnership, a community organisation delivering over ten different projects. They received the Queens Award for Voluntary Service in 2022. Joan has lived and worked in across Europe, the USA and Canada, on the African Sub Continent and in South Asia. She is interested in community development and issues related to women and girls.

Joan is a former Cllr, sat on several school governing bodies as well as being a Trustee for a number of organisations. She is a champion for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), delivers training nationally and internationally as well as acting as a DEI Advisor to Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation as well as the National UK Community Foundation. She is also a Member of the Chief Constables Advisory Panel.

Joan loves to travel, meet and learn about people and to read

Joan was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2021 and has been a Magistrate for over 25 years. Joan teaches at the University of Bedfordshire and undertakes huge amounts of voluntary work. She is the Director of the Safer Luton Partnership, a community organisation delivering over ten different projects. They received the Queens Award for Voluntary Service in 2022. Joan has lived and worked in across Europe, the USA and Canada, on the African Sub Continent and in South Asia. She is interested in community development and issues related to women and girls.

Joan is a former Cllr, sat on several school governing bodies as well as being a Trustee for a number of organisations. She is a champion for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), delivers training nationally and internationally as well as acting as a DEI Advisor to Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation as well as the National UK Community Foundation. She is also a Member of the Chief Constables Advisory Panel.

Joan loves to travel, meet and learn about people and to read

Colonel Leona Barr-Jones DL
Biography

Colonel Leona Barr-Jones has over 33 years’ service in the Armed Forces, 21 years as a Regular Army Officer, the last 12 years as an Army Reservist, where she is still serving, and 6 years as a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer.  She graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1991. 

Leona has been a member of the Reserve Forces and Cadets Association (RFCA) and has sat on the Hertfordshire Forum and was Chair of the Herts Employer Engagement Group, on the Essex Forum in her capacity as Commandant of Essex ACF and on the Bedfordshire Forum in order to support her home county.  Leona was delighted to be appointed as Chief Executive of East Anglia RFCA in September 2023.

In addition to her volunteer work with the Army Cadets, Leona has been personally committed to volunteering and charity work for the last 30+ years. In business, Leona is co-founder and was Chief Operating Office of multi-award winning Focus7, a purpose-led, business growth and marketing agency who are Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award holders.  Leona was named the IoD’s Director of the Year 2019 for Inclusivity and to be the winner of the Defence Inclusivity Award at the Soldiering On Awards 2020 for her life-long commitment to inclusivity.

Colonel Leona Barr-Jones has over 33 years’ service in the Armed Forces, 21 years as a Regular Army Officer, the last 12 years as an Army Reservist, where she is still serving, and 6 years as a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer.  She graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1991. 

Leona has been a member of the Reserve Forces and Cadets Association (RFCA) and has sat on the Hertfordshire Forum and was Chair of the Herts Employer Engagement Group, on the Essex Forum in her capacity as Commandant of Essex ACF and on the Bedfordshire Forum in order to support her home county.  Leona was delighted to be appointed as Chief Executive of East Anglia RFCA in September 2023.

In addition to her volunteer work with the Army Cadets, Leona has been personally committed to volunteering and charity work for the last 30+ years. In business, Leona is co-founder and was Chief Operating Office of multi-award winning Focus7, a purpose-led, business growth and marketing agency who are Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award holders.  Leona was named the IoD’s Director of the Year 2019 for Inclusivity and to be the winner of the Defence Inclusivity Award at the Soldiering On Awards 2020 for her life-long commitment to inclusivity.

The Duchess of Bedford DL
Biography

Louise was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in August 2011 and moved to Bedfordshire in 2000.

Louise lives at Woburn Abbey with Andrew and their two children where she is involved in running the estate. She has also spent the last 20 years recreating Humphrey Repton’s historic garden.

Louise’s patronages include the Friends of the Bedford Hospital, MK Snap, The Bloomsbury Festival, and Andrews Hedgehog Hospital. She is also President of the Bedfordshire Branch of the NSPCC, the Bedfordshire Ambassador for the Cambridge Children’s Hospital and on the East Anglian Air Ambulance Committee.

Louise’s interests are the theatre, reading, gardening, carriage driving and floristry.

Louise was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in August 2011 and moved to Bedfordshire in 2000.

Louise lives at Woburn Abbey with Andrew and their two children where she is involved in running the estate. She has also spent the last 20 years recreating Humphrey Repton’s historic garden.

Louise’s patronages include the Friends of the Bedford Hospital, MK Snap, The Bloomsbury Festival, and Andrews Hedgehog Hospital. She is also President of the Bedfordshire Branch of the NSPCC, the Bedfordshire Ambassador for the Cambridge Children’s Hospital and on the East Anglian Air Ambulance Committee.

Louise’s interests are the theatre, reading, gardening, carriage driving and floristry.

Mrs Alison Bradbury BEM MEng DL
Biography

Alison read Civil Engineering at Birmingham University, graduating in 1995 with a master’s degree in Civil Engineering with Management. During her career, Ali has worked on several large-scale transformation programmes for clients in the engineering, utility and mining sectors. In 2000, she took a sabbatical year in Bolivia working for an NGO teaching sustainable engineering and building practices at a technical school in the capital, La Paz. Returning to Accenture and building on her passion for sustainable development, Ali was a founder member of Accenture Development Partnerships (ADP).

She has served as her local parish councillor, and in 2010 she led the development of her local Parish Plan. Implementing this Plan resulted in her leading several substantive local development projects, as well as forming her own charity - Clophill Heritage Trust (CHT).

For the past 10 years, Ali has continued to run the Clophill Eco Lodges and CHT. The charity has supported many young people, helping them to gain new skills and become independent, responsible young adults. For the past 7 years she has also chaired the Greensand Country Landscape Partnership (GCLP). In 2018 Ali was recognised on Her Majesty’s Honours list, being awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for her services to the local community. 

Alison read Civil Engineering at Birmingham University, graduating in 1995 with a master’s degree in Civil Engineering with Management. During her career, Ali has worked on several large-scale transformation programmes for clients in the engineering, utility and mining sectors. In 2000, she took a sabbatical year in Bolivia working for an NGO teaching sustainable engineering and building practices at a technical school in the capital, La Paz. Returning to Accenture and building on her passion for sustainable development, Ali was a founder member of Accenture Development Partnerships (ADP).

She has served as her local parish councillor, and in 2010 she led the development of her local Parish Plan. Implementing this Plan resulted in her leading several substantive local development projects, as well as forming her own charity - Clophill Heritage Trust (CHT).

For the past 10 years, Ali has continued to run the Clophill Eco Lodges and CHT. The charity has supported many young people, helping them to gain new skills and become independent, responsible young adults. For the past 7 years she has also chaired the Greensand Country Landscape Partnership (GCLP). In 2018 Ali was recognised on Her Majesty’s Honours list, being awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for her services to the local community. 

Mr Martin Darlow DL
Biography

Martin was born and bred in Bedfordshire.

He retired as a senior detective from Bedfordshire Police after 32 years' service before entering the world of cricket administration. Martin became the Chief Executive of Bedfordshire Cricket and then Cricket East. He was elected to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) becoming Deputy Chair and then Chair.

Martin represented the ECB on the International Cricket Council and was also appointed as a Trustee for Chance to Shine, Capital Kids Cricket and a Director at the Lords Taverners.

Martin was born and bred in Bedfordshire.

He retired as a senior detective from Bedfordshire Police after 32 years' service before entering the world of cricket administration. Martin became the Chief Executive of Bedfordshire Cricket and then Cricket East. He was elected to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) becoming Deputy Chair and then Chair.

Martin represented the ECB on the International Cricket Council and was also appointed as a Trustee for Chance to Shine, Capital Kids Cricket and a Director at the Lords Taverners.

The Revd Lloyd George Denny DL
Biography

Rev. Lloyd Denny is a senior minister and General Secretary of Restoration Revival Fellowship an international ministry based in the UK. In this capacity, Lloyd travel, writes and ministers regularly both at home and overseas.

Before retiring from secular employment, Lloyd was a senior public sector manager for more than twenty years and a management consultant for more than ten years.

Independent member of Bedfordshire Police Authority: 2008 - 2012. He also chaired the Police Authority Community Engagement Committee from 2010 -2011. He is founder and president of Save Our Children International: 2008 to present. Vice Chairman, Luton Safeguarding Children Board: 2009 to July 2015.

In December 2014, Lloyd was appointed Deputy Lieutenant of Bedfordshire and in July 2015 was awarded an honorary doctorate in Business Administration from the University of Bedfordshire.

Chairman of Apostolic Churches Alliance, a national association of Pentecostal and Apostolic churches.

Lloyd is Independent Chair of Luton in Harmony, a high profile and town wide campaign which works to keep the peace and harmony amongst the various communities in the town. This role requires regular media appearances and meetings at the very highest levels within the town but also an opportunity to influence young people and their families.

Lloyd served as board member for public and patient involvement on Luton Clinical Commissioning Group from 2015 to 2020.

In 2020, Lloyd was asked by NHS Bedfordshire Luton & Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board to lead a review into health inequalities in the region. The report was published to wide scale compliments in September 2023.

Lloyd sits on Bedfordshire Chief Constable Advisory Panel since 2020 to present.

Lloyd is also the senior pastor of the Luton Church in Bury Park, Luton and married to Merline, together they have six adult children.

Rev. Lloyd Denny is a senior minister and General Secretary of Restoration Revival Fellowship an international ministry based in the UK. In this capacity, Lloyd travel, writes and ministers regularly both at home and overseas.

Before retiring from secular employment, Lloyd was a senior public sector manager for more than twenty years and a management consultant for more than ten years.

Independent member of Bedfordshire Police Authority: 2008 - 2012. He also chaired the Police Authority Community Engagement Committee from 2010 -2011. He is founder and president of Save Our Children International: 2008 to present. Vice Chairman, Luton Safeguarding Children Board: 2009 to July 2015.

In December 2014, Lloyd was appointed Deputy Lieutenant of Bedfordshire and in July 2015 was awarded an honorary doctorate in Business Administration from the University of Bedfordshire.

Chairman of Apostolic Churches Alliance, a national association of Pentecostal and Apostolic churches.

Lloyd is Independent Chair of Luton in Harmony, a high profile and town wide campaign which works to keep the peace and harmony amongst the various communities in the town. This role requires regular media appearances and meetings at the very highest levels within the town but also an opportunity to influence young people and their families.

Lloyd served as board member for public and patient involvement on Luton Clinical Commissioning Group from 2015 to 2020.

In 2020, Lloyd was asked by NHS Bedfordshire Luton & Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board to lead a review into health inequalities in the region. The report was published to wide scale compliments in September 2023.

Lloyd sits on Bedfordshire Chief Constable Advisory Panel since 2020 to present.

Lloyd is also the senior pastor of the Luton Church in Bury Park, Luton and married to Merline, together they have six adult children.

Dr Patrice Evans DL
Biography
Formerly, Deputy Headteacher at Challney High School for Boys, a school she has served for many years, Dr Evans is widely respected - both within the Luton community and nationally - for her outstanding contributions to education. She is a distinguished teacher trainer, a writer and consultant.
 
Her keen interest in the way in which boys learn has helped shape the focus of her doctorate thesis when she studied at the Institute of Education, University College London. Last year she initiated and led others to design a research project idea, which the Education Endowment Foundation funded. This was aimed at developing creative writing at secondary level, with Year 9 students within ten secondary schools across England, all of whom noted significant improvement as a result of using the recommended strategies and resources.
 
Formerly the Course Manager: Curriculum of an outstanding Initial Teacher Training provider (the Chiltern Training Group) for seven years - she was also the English Co-ordinator for over twenty years, working diligently with a variety of departments to foster excellence in teaching and training English trainees across Luton and Bedfordshire. She has served on a range of committees, including the Department for Education’s Minority Ethnic Achievement committee, firmly believing that every child can succeed once we find their ‘cookie’.  Dr Evans also coaches adults, helping them take proactive steps towards fulfilling their ambitions. She hastens to say that she does indeed have spare time in which she supports some charities.  She is an avid reader, who loves helping in her local church, walking and trying to run.
Formerly, Deputy Headteacher at Challney High School for Boys, a school she has served for many years, Dr Evans is widely respected - both within the Luton community and nationally - for her outstanding contributions to education. She is a distinguished teacher trainer, a writer and consultant.
 
Her keen interest in the way in which boys learn has helped shape the focus of her doctorate thesis when she studied at the Institute of Education, University College London. Last year she initiated and led others to design a research project idea, which the Education Endowment Foundation funded. This was aimed at developing creative writing at secondary level, with Year 9 students within ten secondary schools across England, all of whom noted significant improvement as a result of using the recommended strategies and resources.
 
Formerly the Course Manager: Curriculum of an outstanding Initial Teacher Training provider (the Chiltern Training Group) for seven years - she was also the English Co-ordinator for over twenty years, working diligently with a variety of departments to foster excellence in teaching and training English trainees across Luton and Bedfordshire. She has served on a range of committees, including the Department for Education’s Minority Ethnic Achievement committee, firmly believing that every child can succeed once we find their ‘cookie’.  Dr Evans also coaches adults, helping them take proactive steps towards fulfilling their ambitions. She hastens to say that she does indeed have spare time in which she supports some charities.  She is an avid reader, who loves helping in her local church, walking and trying to run.
Mr Mark Hardy DL
Biography

Mark was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2018. He holds several directorships including the Insignis Multi Academy Trust which manages four secondary schools. He has served as an officer and director of Leighton Buzzard Rugby Club for over 40 years and has been a keen supporter of other sports in Leighton Buzzard. He chairs a luncheon club providing a monthly lunch and other support for retired businessmen people in Leighton Buzzard. He is also an Ambassador for Kids Out a national charity based in Leighton Buzzard.

Mark was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2018. He holds several directorships including the Insignis Multi Academy Trust which manages four secondary schools. He has served as an officer and director of Leighton Buzzard Rugby Club for over 40 years and has been a keen supporter of other sports in Leighton Buzzard. He chairs a luncheon club providing a monthly lunch and other support for retired businessmen people in Leighton Buzzard. He is also an Ambassador for Kids Out a national charity based in Leighton Buzzard.

Mrs Deborah Inskip OBE BSc(Hons) FLCM DL
Biography

Deborah was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2014 and served as High Sheriff of Bedfordshire in 2013/14. She has a scientific background and ran her own medical imaging business supporting hospitals throughout the UK and Ireland. On a voluntary basis, she was both Chairman of Governors for Milton Ernest Lower School and Chairman of Milton Ernest Parish Council.

In 2014, Deborah was co-opted on to the Grants Committee of the Harpur Trust. Having been involved with Flitwick and Ampthill Sea Cadets during her year as High Sheriff, she was asked to be their President in 2015. Also in 2015, the Red Cross in Bedfordshire invited her to be a Vice President with particular responsibility for sourcing gardens for their Open Gardens activity. Since 2017 she has been a Chairman of Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends. In 2022 she was honoured with an OBE for many years of voluntary service to the community in Bedfordshire, particularly during Covid-19.

Deborah is a keen musician and much enjoys playing, singing, listening and supporting live music. Other interests include skiing, snorkelling, walking and keeping up with friends.

Deborah was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2014 and served as High Sheriff of Bedfordshire in 2013/14. She has a scientific background and ran her own medical imaging business supporting hospitals throughout the UK and Ireland. On a voluntary basis, she was both Chairman of Governors for Milton Ernest Lower School and Chairman of Milton Ernest Parish Council.

In 2014, Deborah was co-opted on to the Grants Committee of the Harpur Trust. Having been involved with Flitwick and Ampthill Sea Cadets during her year as High Sheriff, she was asked to be their President in 2015. Also in 2015, the Red Cross in Bedfordshire invited her to be a Vice President with particular responsibility for sourcing gardens for their Open Gardens activity. Since 2017 she has been a Chairman of Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends. In 2022 she was honoured with an OBE for many years of voluntary service to the community in Bedfordshire, particularly during Covid-19.

Deborah is a keen musician and much enjoys playing, singing, listening and supporting live music. Other interests include skiing, snorkelling, walking and keeping up with friends.

Mr Nicholas Kier BEM DL
Biography

Nick Kier was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2013 and is the Panel Chair of The King's Awards for Enterprise in Bedfordshire.

Nick has 46 years' experience in estate agency and property related matters. He is also a Patron of Autism Bedfordshire and as a Trustee of Bedford Disabled Horse Riders Association invests a lot of his time to helping people with different disabilities overcome their daily challenges.

Nick has been a regular fundraiser for various charities and also ran the St George’s Day Charity Ball & Golf Day for 25 years until 2017 raising over £630,000 in the process. In 2019 he was honoured with a British Empire Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for services to the Community in Bedfordshire.

He is a member and past president of the Rotary Club of Bedford Park and past president of the Bedfordshire Lawn Tennis Association.

Nick has been married to Rebecca for forty years and has two married children and three grandchildren and counting.

In his spare time Nick enjoys tennis, running and walking with his two Border Collies.

Nick Kier was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2013 and is the Panel Chair of The King's Awards for Enterprise in Bedfordshire.

Nick has 46 years' experience in estate agency and property related matters. He is also a Patron of Autism Bedfordshire and as a Trustee of Bedford Disabled Horse Riders Association invests a lot of his time to helping people with different disabilities overcome their daily challenges.

Nick has been a regular fundraiser for various charities and also ran the St George’s Day Charity Ball & Golf Day for 25 years until 2017 raising over £630,000 in the process. In 2019 he was honoured with a British Empire Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for services to the Community in Bedfordshire.

He is a member and past president of the Rotary Club of Bedford Park and past president of the Bedfordshire Lawn Tennis Association.

Nick has been married to Rebecca for forty years and has two married children and three grandchildren and counting.

In his spare time Nick enjoys tennis, running and walking with his two Border Collies.

Mrs Ruth M LLoyd MBE JP DL
Biography

Mrs Ruth Margaret LLoyd MBE JP DL was commissioned as a Deputy Lieutenant for Bedfordshire in 2014. Within the Lieutenancy, Ruth forms part of the Queens Award for Voluntary Services Panel, the Youth Panel and the Citizenship Panel. Her greatest achievement was playing a key role in the Forest of Marston Vale being appointed to form part of the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy.

Mr LLoyd was awarded the MBE in 2014 for her Services to Defence. Mrs Lloyd is a Civil Service within the Ministry of Defence with a career anchor in finance; previous appointments have included operational deployments to Bosnia, Kosovo and Iraq.

Mrs Lloyd is a Justice of the Peace, commissioning in 2008 and appointed to the Bedfordshire Bench. Furthermore she is the County Officer for Befordshire Sea Cadets responsible for over 250 young people across the county. More recently in 2023 Mrs Lloyd was appointed as the County President for Bedfordshire Royal British Legion.

Married to Mike they have both made their home in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire.

Mrs Ruth Margaret LLoyd MBE JP DL was commissioned as a Deputy Lieutenant for Bedfordshire in 2014. Within the Lieutenancy, Ruth forms part of the Queens Award for Voluntary Services Panel, the Youth Panel and the Citizenship Panel. Her greatest achievement was playing a key role in the Forest of Marston Vale being appointed to form part of the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy.

Mr LLoyd was awarded the MBE in 2014 for her Services to Defence. Mrs Lloyd is a Civil Service within the Ministry of Defence with a career anchor in finance; previous appointments have included operational deployments to Bosnia, Kosovo and Iraq.

Mrs Lloyd is a Justice of the Peace, commissioning in 2008 and appointed to the Bedfordshire Bench. Furthermore she is the County Officer for Befordshire Sea Cadets responsible for over 250 young people across the county. More recently in 2023 Mrs Lloyd was appointed as the County President for Bedfordshire Royal British Legion.

Married to Mike they have both made their home in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire.

Bedfordshire Deputy Lieutenants
Mrs Colette McKeaveney MBE DL
Biography
Mrs Collette McKeaveney is currently taking a sabbatical from her role as Deputy Lieutenant. If you wish to contact Mrs McKeaveney please use the website contact form. 
Mrs Collette McKeaveney is currently taking a sabbatical from her role as Deputy Lieutenant. If you wish to contact Mrs McKeaveney please use the website contact form. 
Air Commodore Gordon Moulds CBE RAF(Ret’d) DL
Biography

Air Commodore Gordon Moulds CBE DL RAF (Ret’d) was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2016. He was involved in the Falkland Islands, Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. His more notable appointments included Commandant of the Air Cadet Organisation; Commander British Forces South Atlantic Islands; and NATO Commander of Kandahar Air Base responsible for over 29000 personnel from over 40 nations.

In 2012, he became CEO of KidsOut, a charity formed by Rotary. The charity has significantly grown over the last 10 years, which would not have been possible without the help, hard work, dedication and involvement of Rotary Clubs and members. He left KidsOut on 31 July 2023 to start a new charity called Kids in Mind which provides wellbeing and mental health support to children who have escaped serious domestic violence and have found sanctuary in a Women’s refuge.

Air Commodore Gordon Moulds CBE DL RAF (Ret’d) was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2016. He was involved in the Falkland Islands, Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. His more notable appointments included Commandant of the Air Cadet Organisation; Commander British Forces South Atlantic Islands; and NATO Commander of Kandahar Air Base responsible for over 29000 personnel from over 40 nations.

In 2012, he became CEO of KidsOut, a charity formed by Rotary. The charity has significantly grown over the last 10 years, which would not have been possible without the help, hard work, dedication and involvement of Rotary Clubs and members. He left KidsOut on 31 July 2023 to start a new charity called Kids in Mind which provides wellbeing and mental health support to children who have escaped serious domestic violence and have found sanctuary in a Women’s refuge.

Dr Robert Oakley OBE DL
Biography

Robert was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in May 2013 and has been Chair of the Lieutenancy "Kings Award for Voluntary Service Panel" since April 2018 supporting and enhancing the recognition of all the excellent volunteers within our County. He is a trustee of the Bedford Educational Association and Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends, where he is also very active in supporting Bedford Hospital and Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust as an active fundraiser in his role as Vice-Chairman of BHC&F. His personal volunteer activities as a Rotarian see him supporting charities within the county, healthcare and sport in general, particularly with hockey where he is President of Bedford Hockey Club and Chairman of the County Association.

Robert was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in May 2013 and has been Chair of the Lieutenancy "Kings Award for Voluntary Service Panel" since April 2018 supporting and enhancing the recognition of all the excellent volunteers within our County. He is a trustee of the Bedford Educational Association and Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends, where he is also very active in supporting Bedford Hospital and Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust as an active fundraiser in his role as Vice-Chairman of BHC&F. His personal volunteer activities as a Rotarian see him supporting charities within the county, healthcare and sport in general, particularly with hockey where he is President of Bedford Hockey Club and Chairman of the County Association.

Mr Mark Ormerod DL
Biography

Mark Ormerod is a highly respected leader in the sport, health, and community development sectors, with a career dedicated to fostering collaboration and driving positive change. Since 1995, Mark worked nationally and regionally for Sport England in a number of senior roles. Since 2012, he has served as CEO of Leap, where he has championed initiatives to increase physical activity and improve wellbeing across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes. His influence extends nationally as Chair of the National Policy Group for Active Partnerships, shaping strategies that connect policy with grassroots impact. Mark’s commitment to social value is evident through his roles as Founding Chair of the Buckinghamshire VCSE Partnership Board and Chair of the Milton Keynes Place Expansion Partnership Board (MK PEP), where he works to strengthen local systems and partnerships.
Beyond his executive leadership, Mark has a long-standing record of voluntary service and governance. He is Honorary Vice President and former Chair of Trustees for SportsAid Eastern, supporting talented young athletes, and a Founding Trustee and Senior Independent Director of the Bedford Blues Foundation, using sport as a catalyst for community engagement. His passion for innovation is reflected in co-founding the Buckinghamshire Data Exchange, enabling data-driven decision-making to improve outcomes for residents. With decades of experience and a deep commitment to inclusion, Mark continues to be a driving force in creating healthier, more connected communities.
Mark has lived in Bedfordshire since 2002, and is married to Juliet with two teenage children.

Mark Ormerod is a highly respected leader in the sport, health, and community development sectors, with a career dedicated to fostering collaboration and driving positive change. Since 1995, Mark worked nationally and regionally for Sport England in a number of senior roles. Since 2012, he has served as CEO of Leap, where he has championed initiatives to increase physical activity and improve wellbeing across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes. His influence extends nationally as Chair of the National Policy Group for Active Partnerships, shaping strategies that connect policy with grassroots impact. Mark’s commitment to social value is evident through his roles as Founding Chair of the Buckinghamshire VCSE Partnership Board and Chair of the Milton Keynes Place Expansion Partnership Board (MK PEP), where he works to strengthen local systems and partnerships.
Beyond his executive leadership, Mark has a long-standing record of voluntary service and governance. He is Honorary Vice President and former Chair of Trustees for SportsAid Eastern, supporting talented young athletes, and a Founding Trustee and Senior Independent Director of the Bedford Blues Foundation, using sport as a catalyst for community engagement. His passion for innovation is reflected in co-founding the Buckinghamshire Data Exchange, enabling data-driven decision-making to improve outcomes for residents. With decades of experience and a deep commitment to inclusion, Mark continues to be a driving force in creating healthier, more connected communities.
Mark has lived in Bedfordshire since 2002, and is married to Juliet with two teenage children.

Mr Edward Phillips DL
Biography

Since 2007, Edward has been the Chief Executive of the 1,200 acre Luton Hoo Estate in Bedfordshire.  Luton Hoo is his family estate and is situated between Luton and Harpenden. Edward leads the day-to-day management of the estate and its various enterprises. The estate is heavily diversified with residential and commercial property lets, an in-hand farm with a contracting operation farming predominantly cereal crops, a historic walled garden with a permanent wedding and event venue, and a renowned film location.  Under his leadership, the estate has seen significant growth and diversification, including a focus on sustainability and the installation of a 250kW solar photovoltaic array.

Edward has chaired a number of committees for the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) notably the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire branch and more recently the National Tax Committee.  He was on the board of the Bedfordshire Local Nature Partnership, has chaired the Bedfordshire committee for the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust and was appointed a Governor of Beechwood Park School in 2024. 
Since 2018, Edward has worked with the Luton and Dunstable Hospital Charity team chairing several fundraising events. He also gives time as Community First Responder with the East of England Ambulance Service.

He enjoys many varied activities, notably skiing, tennis and swimming as well as being a keen shot. He is married to Marina and they have three boys.

Since 2007, Edward has been the Chief Executive of the 1,200 acre Luton Hoo Estate in Bedfordshire.  Luton Hoo is his family estate and is situated between Luton and Harpenden. Edward leads the day-to-day management of the estate and its various enterprises. The estate is heavily diversified with residential and commercial property lets, an in-hand farm with a contracting operation farming predominantly cereal crops, a historic walled garden with a permanent wedding and event venue, and a renowned film location.  Under his leadership, the estate has seen significant growth and diversification, including a focus on sustainability and the installation of a 250kW solar photovoltaic array.

Edward has chaired a number of committees for the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) notably the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire branch and more recently the National Tax Committee.  He was on the board of the Bedfordshire Local Nature Partnership, has chaired the Bedfordshire committee for the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust and was appointed a Governor of Beechwood Park School in 2024. 
Since 2018, Edward has worked with the Luton and Dunstable Hospital Charity team chairing several fundraising events. He also gives time as Community First Responder with the East of England Ambulance Service.

He enjoys many varied activities, notably skiing, tennis and swimming as well as being a keen shot. He is married to Marina and they have three boys.

Mr Arthur Julian Polhill DL
Biography

Julian Polhill was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant in 2021. He was educated at University College Oxford and received a Fletcher Scholar in Classics, MA.

His early working life was as a financial journalist; he set up a consultancy specialising in the financial services for different clients ranging from Citibank, AIG, Soc Gen, DTI and government bodies to Age Concern. Currently he is farming and managing the family estates in Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and London.

Julian’s main interests are rural affairs and, until 2017, politics. He is former President of NE Bedfordshire Conservatives, Beds and Cambs regional committee. In 2017 he resigned all political posts prior to becoming High Sheriff of Bedfordshire.

He is a former Chairman of Bedfordshire Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust; Chairman of Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire CLA (Country Landowners Association) and a national committee member. He is an active member of a number of local bodies and charities, such as The Red Cross, Bedfordshire Crimebeat (Shrieval Crime prevention charity), Bedfordshire Opportunities for Learning Disabilities, Bedford Hospitals Trust and Autism Bedford.

Julian Polhill was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant in 2021. He was educated at University College Oxford and received a Fletcher Scholar in Classics, MA.

His early working life was as a financial journalist; he set up a consultancy specialising in the financial services for different clients ranging from Citibank, AIG, Soc Gen, DTI and government bodies to Age Concern. Currently he is farming and managing the family estates in Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and London.

Julian’s main interests are rural affairs and, until 2017, politics. He is former President of NE Bedfordshire Conservatives, Beds and Cambs regional committee. In 2017 he resigned all political posts prior to becoming High Sheriff of Bedfordshire.

He is a former Chairman of Bedfordshire Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust; Chairman of Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire CLA (Country Landowners Association) and a national committee member. He is an active member of a number of local bodies and charities, such as The Red Cross, Bedfordshire Crimebeat (Shrieval Crime prevention charity), Bedfordshire Opportunities for Learning Disabilities, Bedford Hospitals Trust and Autism Bedford.

Professor Gurcharan Randhawa PhD FFPH DL
Biography

Vice Lord-Lieutenant Gurch Randhawa is a Professor of Diversity in Public Health and Director of the Institute for Health & Wellbeing Research at the University of Bedfordshire. With over 30 years of experience, he specialises in using inter-faith and inter-cultural approaches to develop patient-centred care across the life course, from maternal health to end-of-life care. 

An international leader in organ donation research, Gurch served on the Prime Minister’s Organ Donation Taskforce and developed the NHS Faith Engagement & Organ Donation Action Plan. He has authored influential books, including Organ Donation in Islam (2023), and serves as an Expert Advisor to the APPG on Ethnicity, Transplantation, and Transfusion. He is currently collaborating with the Vatican’s Pontifical Academy for Life on the DELIVER project. 

Deeply committed to his community, Gurch serves as an Ambassador for Keech Hospice Care, Patron of Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity, and a volunteer at the Luton Sikh Soup Kitchen. His leadership extends to governance roles as a Non-Executive Director for the Central East NHS Integrated Care Board and on the Forestry England Board, ensuring his research directly informs public policy and practice.

Vice Lord-Lieutenant Gurch Randhawa is a Professor of Diversity in Public Health and Director of the Institute for Health & Wellbeing Research at the University of Bedfordshire. With over 30 years of experience, he specialises in using inter-faith and inter-cultural approaches to develop patient-centred care across the life course, from maternal health to end-of-life care. 

An international leader in organ donation research, Gurch served on the Prime Minister’s Organ Donation Taskforce and developed the NHS Faith Engagement & Organ Donation Action Plan. He has authored influential books, including Organ Donation in Islam (2023), and serves as an Expert Advisor to the APPG on Ethnicity, Transplantation, and Transfusion. He is currently collaborating with the Vatican’s Pontifical Academy for Life on the DELIVER project. 

Deeply committed to his community, Gurch serves as an Ambassador for Keech Hospice Care, Patron of Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity, and a volunteer at the Luton Sikh Soup Kitchen. His leadership extends to governance roles as a Non-Executive Director for the Central East NHS Integrated Care Board and on the Forestry England Board, ensuring his research directly informs public policy and practice.

Mrs Brenda Roberts DL
Biography

Brenda has over 30 years’ experience in senior communications and corporate responsibility roles, working in-house for FTSE 100 companies Whitbread, NatWest and Granada, and in consultancy for clients including Lloyds, Barclays and Cadbury.

At Whitbread she played a key role in the Group’s CSR approach. Programmes included the Whitbread Young Achiever Awards in partnership with the Home Office and leading voluntary sector agencies. 

Appointed a Director of London Scottish RFC in 2018 Brenda has been responsible for investor relations, and key fundraising events. In 2018 she became Vice President, and later President, of the British Red Cross in Bedfordshire, working with a team of dedicated volunteers to stage fundraising events and help raise the profile of the Red Cross in the county.

Brenda has over 30 years’ experience in senior communications and corporate responsibility roles, working in-house for FTSE 100 companies Whitbread, NatWest and Granada, and in consultancy for clients including Lloyds, Barclays and Cadbury.

At Whitbread she played a key role in the Group’s CSR approach. Programmes included the Whitbread Young Achiever Awards in partnership with the Home Office and leading voluntary sector agencies. 

Appointed a Director of London Scottish RFC in 2018 Brenda has been responsible for investor relations, and key fundraising events. In 2018 she became Vice President, and later President, of the British Red Cross in Bedfordshire, working with a team of dedicated volunteers to stage fundraising events and help raise the profile of the Red Cross in the county.

Mr James Russell DL
Biography

James Russell is Director of the Forest of Marston Vale Trust and has spearheaded the creation of the Forest of Marston Vale as one of England’s Community Forests. He holds a first-class honours degree from Cranfield University, is a Chartered Forester and Chartered Environmentalist. James has over 25 years’ experience in community forestry, working to integrate forestry, nature conservation, farming and development to deliver a bold, pioneering vision for using trees and woodlands to transform landscapes and facilitate regeneration.

James has served for a decade on the Government’s Forestry and Woodland Advisory Committee for East England and sits on the national Delivery Advisory Group which advises Forestry Commission and Government on existing and emerging forestry policy. He is a Board Member of the Bedfordshire Local Nature Partnership, Elected Board Member of the Bedfordshire & River Ivel Internal Drainage Board and a Member of the Borough of Bedford Local Access Forum. James is a deliberate generalist, using knowledge and expertise across many disciplines to help integrate the thinking of other professionals to achieve positive environment impact and benefit.

Born in the outskirts of Merseyside, James moved down to Bedfordshire in 1993 to study at Cranfield University, and has made Bedfordshire his adopted County ever since. James enjoys immersing himself in Bedfordshire’s woodlands or escaping to the remote wilds of the Western Highlands.

James Russell is Director of the Forest of Marston Vale Trust and has spearheaded the creation of the Forest of Marston Vale as one of England’s Community Forests. He holds a first-class honours degree from Cranfield University, is a Chartered Forester and Chartered Environmentalist. James has over 25 years’ experience in community forestry, working to integrate forestry, nature conservation, farming and development to deliver a bold, pioneering vision for using trees and woodlands to transform landscapes and facilitate regeneration.

James has served for a decade on the Government’s Forestry and Woodland Advisory Committee for East England and sits on the national Delivery Advisory Group which advises Forestry Commission and Government on existing and emerging forestry policy. He is a Board Member of the Bedfordshire Local Nature Partnership, Elected Board Member of the Bedfordshire & River Ivel Internal Drainage Board and a Member of the Borough of Bedford Local Access Forum. James is a deliberate generalist, using knowledge and expertise across many disciplines to help integrate the thinking of other professionals to achieve positive environment impact and benefit.

Born in the outskirts of Merseyside, James moved down to Bedfordshire in 1993 to study at Cranfield University, and has made Bedfordshire his adopted County ever since. James enjoys immersing himself in Bedfordshire’s woodlands or escaping to the remote wilds of the Western Highlands.

Major Simon Sadler TD DL
Biography

Major Sadler has served as a Deputy Lieutenant since 2011. He has 30 years' military experience as a TA commissioned officer which gives him a unique opportunity to network with military charities, cadets, and veteran organisations.

Simon Sadler had worked for over 40 years in accountancy covering a range of clients, including the non-profit and charity sector. He served as governor in charge of finance at Greenfield & Pulloxhill Academy for 12 years and as treasurer and independent examiner of various organisations.

Simon has continued his interest in youth and cadet organisations as the county chair of the Reserve Forces & Cadets Association Forum and trustee of Flitwick & Ampthill Sea Cadets. He is a trustee and a patron of a number of charity organisations, such as Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends, and Autism Bedfordshire. His military activity runs on as the county chair of the Army Benevolent Fund and national chair of Hertfordshire & Bedfordshire Yeomanry Association.

Simon is actively involved in the community in terms of fundraising such as the Flitton Potato Race, managing village facilities such as the village and church halls, and organising activities such as monthly IT surgeries and open houses for the more senior citizens.nising activities such as monthly IT surgeries and open houses for the more senior citizens.

Major Sadler has served as a Deputy Lieutenant since 2011. He has 30 years' military experience as a TA commissioned officer which gives him a unique opportunity to network with military charities, cadets, and veteran organisations.

Simon Sadler had worked for over 40 years in accountancy covering a range of clients, including the non-profit and charity sector. He served as governor in charge of finance at Greenfield & Pulloxhill Academy for 12 years and as treasurer and independent examiner of various organisations.

Simon has continued his interest in youth and cadet organisations as the county chair of the Reserve Forces & Cadets Association Forum and trustee of Flitwick & Ampthill Sea Cadets. He is a trustee and a patron of a number of charity organisations, such as Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends, and Autism Bedfordshire. His military activity runs on as the county chair of the Army Benevolent Fund and national chair of Hertfordshire & Bedfordshire Yeomanry Association.

Simon is actively involved in the community in terms of fundraising such as the Flitton Potato Race, managing village facilities such as the village and church halls, and organising activities such as monthly IT surgeries and open houses for the more senior citizens.nising activities such as monthly IT surgeries and open houses for the more senior citizens.

Mr Bav Shah DL
Biography
Bav Shah was born and raised in Luton and has worked and travelled across the world since a young age. He graduated from Nottingham Trent University with a degree in Real Estate Management. Bav later qualified as a Chartered Surveyor and worked with leading Real Estate Advisors, Gerald Eve LLP. Amongst the national brands that he advised, were local Bedfordshire brands including Charles Wells LTD (now Wells & Co) and Whitbread PLC. Keen to diversify his experience and explore a different culture, Bav then moved to Australia for a year where he worked with global advisors, CBRE and with leading investment fund DEXUS. During this period, Bav also enjoyed time with his family who live in Australia. He then returned to the UK to set up Business Property Solutions Chartered Surveyors, a niche property consulting business, advising a range of clients from start-ups to International Brands.
 
Bav has been a Rotarian for a number of years, and is involved in community and voluntary projects locally, nationally and internationally. He is also former Governor of Woodlands Secondary School in Luton, Luton Sixth Form College and Nottingham Trent University. He has held a number of advisory positions for local charities, community organisations and also the Professional Body, RICS. He continues to mentor students from Nottingham Trent every year as well as provide ongoing career guidance.
 
Being one of the youngest people to take the Office of High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, Bav utilised his experience to promote youth development and bridge the gaps between younger and older communities with a firm belief that everyone has a lot to learn from each other, no matter their age or background.
Bav Shah was born and raised in Luton and has worked and travelled across the world since a young age. He graduated from Nottingham Trent University with a degree in Real Estate Management. Bav later qualified as a Chartered Surveyor and worked with leading Real Estate Advisors, Gerald Eve LLP. Amongst the national brands that he advised, were local Bedfordshire brands including Charles Wells LTD (now Wells & Co) and Whitbread PLC. Keen to diversify his experience and explore a different culture, Bav then moved to Australia for a year where he worked with global advisors, CBRE and with leading investment fund DEXUS. During this period, Bav also enjoyed time with his family who live in Australia. He then returned to the UK to set up Business Property Solutions Chartered Surveyors, a niche property consulting business, advising a range of clients from start-ups to International Brands.
 
Bav has been a Rotarian for a number of years, and is involved in community and voluntary projects locally, nationally and internationally. He is also former Governor of Woodlands Secondary School in Luton, Luton Sixth Form College and Nottingham Trent University. He has held a number of advisory positions for local charities, community organisations and also the Professional Body, RICS. He continues to mentor students from Nottingham Trent every year as well as provide ongoing career guidance.
 
Being one of the youngest people to take the Office of High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, Bav utilised his experience to promote youth development and bridge the gaps between younger and older communities with a firm belief that everyone has a lot to learn from each other, no matter their age or background.
Mr Vinod Tailor MBE FCIB FCSI DL
Biography

Vinod Tailor was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant in 2005 and he is a former High Sheriff of Bedfordshire (2017/2018).

Vinod first came to the UK from Uganda as a refugee in 1972. He has been working in the banking and finance sector since 1974, working with Japanese, British and American corporations. Mr Tailor has extensive experience in managing key strategic relationships and has multi-jurisdictional experience spanning 32 countries over 44 years.

He is a Fellow of both the Chartered Institute of Bankers and Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments.

He knows Bedfordshire well having worked with voluntary sector organisations and charities across the county. Vinod has been involved in a voluntary capacity providing food to organisations such as Food Banks, the Salvation Army, Hospital staff and Homeless charities.

He was invested with an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list in 2020 for services to the community in Bedfordshire during Covid-19. He was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration in recognition of services to business and the local community.

He is a Governor of Bedfordshire Hospitals and Bedford College.

Vinod is a trustee of Peace Child International a charitable organisation which empowers young people through youth-led development. He is a patron of Keech Hospice a charity organisation which provides free, specialist care for adults and children with life-limiting illnesses.

Vinod Tailor was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant in 2005 and he is a former High Sheriff of Bedfordshire (2017/2018).

Vinod first came to the UK from Uganda as a refugee in 1972. He has been working in the banking and finance sector since 1974, working with Japanese, British and American corporations. Mr Tailor has extensive experience in managing key strategic relationships and has multi-jurisdictional experience spanning 32 countries over 44 years.

He is a Fellow of both the Chartered Institute of Bankers and Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments.

He knows Bedfordshire well having worked with voluntary sector organisations and charities across the county. Vinod has been involved in a voluntary capacity providing food to organisations such as Food Banks, the Salvation Army, Hospital staff and Homeless charities.

He was invested with an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list in 2020 for services to the community in Bedfordshire during Covid-19. He was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration in recognition of services to business and the local community.

He is a Governor of Bedfordshire Hospitals and Bedford College.

Vinod is a trustee of Peace Child International a charitable organisation which empowers young people through youth-led development. He is a patron of Keech Hospice a charity organisation which provides free, specialist care for adults and children with life-limiting illnesses.

Mrs Elizabeth Toogood DL
Biography

Liz was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2021. She has a degree in Theology and currently mentors clergy on behalf of two Church of England dioceses and rabbis on behalf of Liberal Judaism. She has held parish roles in Moggerhanger, Sharnbrook and Bedford. She was chair of the Ivel Group of churches. Liz was a founding management group member of the Support in Ministry scheme and the Dispute Advisory Service for the Diocese of St Albans; a founding member of Money Advice, a debt management advice service and chair of Fairtrade at St Andrew’s Bedford.

She was a founder member of Bedfordshire Family Health Services Authority and Chair of governors at Moggerhanger Lower School.

Liz is a trustee of the MS Therapy Centre in Bedford. She sits on Bedford Homelessness Partnership. She has a business mentoring practice with both commercial and pro bono clients. Her interests are social justice especially disability matters. She is a keen reader and loves live performance especially musical and straight theatre.

Liz was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2021. She has a degree in Theology and currently mentors clergy on behalf of two Church of England dioceses and rabbis on behalf of Liberal Judaism. She has held parish roles in Moggerhanger, Sharnbrook and Bedford. She was chair of the Ivel Group of churches. Liz was a founding management group member of the Support in Ministry scheme and the Dispute Advisory Service for the Diocese of St Albans; a founding member of Money Advice, a debt management advice service and chair of Fairtrade at St Andrew’s Bedford.

She was a founder member of Bedfordshire Family Health Services Authority and Chair of governors at Moggerhanger Lower School.

Liz is a trustee of the MS Therapy Centre in Bedford. She sits on Bedford Homelessness Partnership. She has a business mentoring practice with both commercial and pro bono clients. Her interests are social justice especially disability matters. She is a keen reader and loves live performance especially musical and straight theatre.

Mr Andrew Wallis MBE DL
Biography

Andrew Wallis was appointed Deputy Lieutenant in 2016. He spent 30 years in investment banking with Deutsche Bank, followed by a role as the Director of The Guards Museum from 2005 to 2023.

Andrew has been a member of the Honourable Artillery Company since 1973. He commanded the Lord Mayor’s ceremonial bodyguard, the Company of Pikemen and Musketeers.

He chairs the Board of Trustees of Veteran’s Aid, a tri-service military charity that helps homeless ex-servicemen and is a trustee of The Arms and Armour Heritage Trust, the charitable arm of The Royal Armouries.

Mr Wallis founded the Flanders Fields Memorial Garden - a monument dedicated to the participants of World War I situated in Central London.

He was invested with an MBE in January 2015 and appointed as an Officer of the Belgian Order of Leopold (OL) in July 2015. He is the Honorary Colonel of the Army Cadet Force in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.

Andrew is deeply interested in history, folk, art and music.

Andrew Wallis was appointed Deputy Lieutenant in 2016. He spent 30 years in investment banking with Deutsche Bank, followed by a role as the Director of The Guards Museum from 2005 to 2023.

Andrew has been a member of the Honourable Artillery Company since 1973. He commanded the Lord Mayor’s ceremonial bodyguard, the Company of Pikemen and Musketeers.

He chairs the Board of Trustees of Veteran’s Aid, a tri-service military charity that helps homeless ex-servicemen and is a trustee of The Arms and Armour Heritage Trust, the charitable arm of The Royal Armouries.

Mr Wallis founded the Flanders Fields Memorial Garden - a monument dedicated to the participants of World War I situated in Central London.

He was invested with an MBE in January 2015 and appointed as an Officer of the Belgian Order of Leopold (OL) in July 2015. He is the Honorary Colonel of the Army Cadet Force in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.

Andrew is deeply interested in history, folk, art and music.

Mr Charles Whitbread DL
Biography

Charles served as the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire in 2016 and was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant in 2018.

He was born in Bedfordshire and is involved in the family farming and property business.

Charles is the chair of the Wixamtree Trust and the Gilchrist Educational Trust and serves a number of local organisations in various capacities. His main interests are natural history, conservation and reading.

Charles served as the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire in 2016 and was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant in 2018.

He was born in Bedfordshire and is involved in the family farming and property business.

Charles is the chair of the Wixamtree Trust and the Gilchrist Educational Trust and serves a number of local organisations in various capacities. His main interests are natural history, conservation and reading.

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