Newport Minster was the venue for a service marking the beginning of the new Law Year of the Isle of Wight Courts 2024-2025 on Monday.
Prior to the service, a number of legal figures processed from the Law Courts in Quay Street, Newport to Newport Minster.
His Honour Judge Michael Bowes KC, Honorary Recorder of Portsmouth and Resident Judge for Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight, led the way. Also in attendance was His Honour Judge Glen ,Designated Civil Judge for Hampshire, Wiltshire and the Isle of Wight.
Mr Graham Biss, BEM.DL, High Sheriff of the Isle of Wight, was joined by the High Sheriffs of Devon, Somerset, Dorset and Hampshire as well as Mrs. April Newton The Under Sheriff of the Isle of Wight. Mrs Susie Sheldon, JP. HM Lord-Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight, was also a guest.
At the Minster, trumpeter Hillary Reeves played a fanfare for the High Sheriff and the service was conducted by Reverend Steve Sutcliffe, Chaplain to the High Sheriff, who welcomed guests.
In the congregation were a number of current Deputy Lieutenants ( DLs) and a host of previous High Sheriffs of the Isle of Wight.
His Honour, Judge Michael Bowes KC gave the first reading from Corinthians 12.Verses 4-11. After a performance by the Queensgate Foundation Primary School choir, Graham Biss gave the second reading from Peter 4.verses 8-11.
Reverend Chris Bradish, Team Rector for the Benefice of Newport and Carisbrooke with Gatcombe, gave the address on the subject of the judiciary and the community. This was followed by prayers led by members of the Island’s Voluntary Sector including; Hazel Breach, Sian Grove and Julian Wadsworth aided by Reverend Steve Sutcliffe.
Following the blessing, the service was brought to a close by the congregation singing the National Anthem. A retiring collection was taken to benefit the High Sheriffs’ Trust, which was founded in 2000, and Newport Minster.
3rd from the left. Is that Randini?