Alan Shearer made Deputy Lieutenant of Northumberland

Oct 1 2009 by David Black, The Journal

SOCCER favourite Alan Shearer last night told of his pride as he landed a prestigious and centuries-old ceremonial role.

The former Newcastle United goal scoring hero has been made a Deputy Lieutenant of Northumberland, after the appointment was approved by the Queen.

He was nominated for the role by the Duchess of Northumberland, who in May became the first-ever female Lord Lieutenant of England’s most northerly county.

Lord Lieutenants date back to the reign of King Henry VIII and are the official representatives of the Crown in English ceremonial counties.

Deputy Lieutenants have been appointed for hundreds of years to be stand-ins for the Lord Lieutenants in their absence, and Shearer is now one of 22 people performing the role in Northumberland.

He could be asked to deputise for the Duchess at officials engagements which she is unable to keep, such as Royal visits and civic ceremonies, and his local knowledge and contacts will be used for matters such as awards and invitations to Royal garden parties.

Shearer, who lives in Darras Hall, Northumberland, was awarded the OBE for services to football in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2001.

He recently received his commission as Deputy Lieutenant by centuries-old custom, when official confirmation was given that the Queen did not ‘disapprove of the appointment’.

Deputy lieutenants must live within the county or within seven miles of its boundary, and normally retain the role until they retire at 75. Shearer follows in the footsteps of Ashington-born World Cup winner Jack Charlton, who is due to retire as Deputy Lieutenant in May next year.