The new High Sheriff of Hertfordshire had to be appointed through a video conference because of the coronavirus lockdown.

Henry Holland-Hibbert was given the role on Saturday at his home in Munden House near Watford, with the swearing in ceremony given a twist due to the spread of Covid-19.

During his online ceremony over a video call, Mr Holland-Hibbert was joined with all the necessary parties dialling in remotely from their homes.

Speaking after his appointment, Mr Holland-Hibbert said: “I am greatly honoured to accept the position of High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, my home county for 30 years. I will endeavour to highlight the best of Hertfordshire from the charity sector and work closely with all professionals who sustain the vibrant communities of our diverse county."

Following four years in the Army, Mr Holland-Hibbert followed a professional career in the property industry.

His time is now spent as a consultant to a variety of property related businesses in London and the Home Counties.

He added: "I have the privilege of serving as Chairman of Hertfordshire Community Foundation and a particular theme of my High Sheriff year will be promoting the work of HCF and their association with the voluntary sector.

"I am also particularly interested in issues relating to housing and homelessness (including town planning) and environmental issues including climate change, renewable energy and conservation (and how we reduce the dreadful blight of litter) and I look forward to understanding more about these matters around the county going forwards."

The office of High Sheriff is the oldest secular office in England after the Crown.

The High Sheriff is independent, non-political, receives no remuneration and is normally appointed annually by the Sovereign at a “pricking ceremony” in front of the Privy Council.

Her Majesty uses a bodkin to mark the name of each High Sheriff throughout 52 counties.