A RETIRED Ryedale vicar has become the new High Sheriff for North Yorkshire – an ancient appointment made annually by The Queen.

The Rev Rachel Benson was responsible for a cluster of parishes in the Crambe area for several years before she retired, and now lives near Malton with her husband Michael.

Her early life was spent at Great Ayton, near Stokesley, before she went into teaching and the ministry. She is a direct descendant of Elizabeth Fry, the prison reformer and Quaker, and has a keen interest in the welfare and rehabilitation of women. She was also a magistrate in London for 20 years. A deputy lieutentant of the county, Mrs Benson still officiates at church services.

The High Sheriff has a number of judicial and ceremonial functions, especially in relation to the maintenance of law and order, and is also the returning officer for parliamentary elections in county constituencies.

The office dates back to the 10th century and the holder is appointed by the monarch by a warrant from the Privy Council.

Mrs Benson succeeds Major Peter Scrope and is believed to be the first ordained woman to hold the post of High Sheriff.

She said: “I am greatly looking forward to my year in office and to meeting and serving the people of North Yorkshire. It is a great honour to have been nominated to this ancient and important office.”