Community key to Deputy Lieutenants’ plans
An artistic director, Olympic medallist, university vice-chancellor and successful businessman have all been named Deputy Lieutenants of the West Midlands.
All four will support the West Midlands Lieutenancies forward programme of community activity.
Fiona Allen is artistic director and chief executive of Birmingham Hippodrome while Katharine Merry is an Olympic medallist, broadcaster and host.
Professor Stuart Croft is Vice-Chancellor and President at the University of Warwick and Wade Lyn, CBE, owns Cleone Foods Ltd, the largest manufacturer of Jamaican patties in the UK.
The new Deputy Lieutenants join the 61 others across the country who support community activities for the second largest Lieutenancy in England and Wales.
The region includes seven local authorities of Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton, supporting a growing population of more than three million people.
The Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands John Crabtree said: “The new Deputy Lieutenants all have different talents and will be an assets in our activities.
“We are nearly into Coventry’s year as the capital of culture and Fiona’s background in theatre will be invaluable as we celebrate the grassroots culture we are fortunate to enjoy in the region.
"We will also work towards establishing the Midlands Art ‘brand’ in its rightful place on the national and world stage.
"Katharine Merry is a superb commentator and her sports passion will be perfect as we host the Commonwealth Games next year.
“The Lieutenancy is aware of the many hundreds of fantastic sports clubs, often run by volunteers, that bring so much pleasure and well-being to all ages.
"With Katharine’s engagement, we can lend our weight to supporting the post-Commonwealth Games health and well-being agenda.
"Over recent years we have been able to forge closer links with education and young people to help encourage a model of good citizenship.
“Professor Stuart Croft will improve our reach and appreciation of this sector and how we engage with young people.
"Wade Lyn is not only an enterprising company owner, but gives back so much. He plays a big role in the Jamaican diaspora and supports young entrepreneurs.
“I am proud of how our region has supported each other in this uniquely challenging last year with so many people giving their time and energy.”
