THE former combined counties of Herefordshire and Worcestershire have a new High Sheriff.

John Yorke has replaced Lieutenant General Sir John Foley in the role that dates back hundreds of years.

"It is a purely formal role and I will represent the Queen as the head of the judiciary," said the new High Sheriff, who lives at Forthampton Court on the Worcestershire/Gloucestershire border.

"One of the roles will be to present awards to various people who have helped with the administration of justice."

Mr Yorke, aged 68, will continue with his current roles as chairman of the Trustees of the Abbey Lawn Trust - a buildings preservation charity - and director of a small antique dealership in London.