At the monthly luncheon meeting of the Pembroke Probus Club on September 4, members were enthralled by a speaker of the highest calibre.

Thomas Lloyd, Esq, OBE, DL, FSA, former High Sherriff of Dyfed, told of the history of the office of High Sherriff which, in the 1800s carried tax raising responsibilities among many duties to the monarch.

He, (it was always a 'he' until the first lady High Sherriff in 1967), had to provide at his own cost a carriage and horses, coat of arms, uniforms trumpets and banners for trumpeters, pikes and uniforms for six pikemen, a seal of office, bells, processions, a chaplain, lodgings and meals for visiting judges and other dignitaries and their entourages.

Many other expenses brought the cost of being in this office to about £50-60,000 in today's terms.

Even in modern times, the office carries a number of responsibilities such as attending royal visitors to the county - in Tom's case - Pembrokeshire, Carmarthen and Cardigan, proclaiming a new sovereign, acting as returning officer at elections, execution of high court writs and many more.

Tom gave an insight into the wearing of the traditional uniform which is a black velvet tailcoat with cut steel buttons, knee breeches black tights and buckled shoes. He said he felt it very important to park as close as possible to the venues he visited as it would be difficult to blend in with the crowd dressed in the uniform. The uniform itself represents a considerable cost and they are normally passed on to incoming High Sherriff's for an undisclosed fee.

Assisting in voluntary sector work is a duty in which Tom was very keen to be involved and among his charities, he supported Shelter Cymru and raised about £10,000.

His work also included identifying six deserving youngsters and giving them assistance to participate in courses such as The Duke of Edinburgh Awards scheme.

Tom still has a duty to greet and offer hospitality to any royal visitors, High Court judges when visiting the three counties.

Tom really enjoyed being High Sherriff saying it had been a great honour and privilege especially to work with volunteer organisations and witnessing the good work they do in the community.