Over 400 people from across Bedfordshire came together at St Paul’s Church, Bedford on Sunday, September 4, 2022 to give thanks to HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Helen Nellis CVO CStJ and to welcome Lord-Lieutenant (designate) Susan Lousada DL to the role.
Helen Nellis was officially appointed as HM The Queen’s representative in Bedfordshire in November 2011 and took up office in February 2012.
Throughout this time, Helen has worked extremely hard to tell the positive story of Bedfordshire by seeking out those who work in so many ways to build communities where all can feel valued, thrive and have a sense of belonging.
Helen’s husband, Professor Joe Nellis, has been by her side during her time as Lord-Lieutenant and has supported her every step of the way.
Vice Lord-Lieutenant, Chris Sharwood-Smith MBE, Bishop of Bedford The Rt Rev Richard Atkinson OBE and St Paul’s Church The Rev Canon Kevin Goss welcomed guests from across the county and beyond to the service, including High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Lady Jane Clifford and Sir Timothy Clifford, MPs from across Bedfordshire, Chief Fire Officer Andrew Hopkinson, Chief Constable Garry Forsyth, Chief Executive of Central Bedfordshire Council Marcel Coiffait, Mayor of Bedford, Mayor of Luton, Vice Chair of Central Bedfordshire Council, Town Mayors and representatives of countywide organisations and armed forces personnel.
At the service, Mrs Susan Lousada was welcomed as the new Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire. Susan swore to honour her allegiance to Her Majesty the Queen and serve her as Lord-Lieutenant diligently and faithfully. She made a solemn promise to serve the people of Bedfordshire and strive to build a loving and inclusive community.
Susan Lousada will officially become HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire on Wednesday, September 7, 2022.
Speaking after the service the Lord-Lieutenant, Helen Nellis said: “During these past wonderful years as HM Lord-Lieutenant, I have been blessed to have met so many exceptional people in our county who have lit a fire in me and in others to work towards building stronger and kinder communities where everyone can feel valued and have a sense of belonging.
“Thank you all for your warmth and compassion and for believing that each one of us can act to make a difference. My heart will be with you and with Sue Lousada always as she leads us in this joint endeavour.”
Susan Lousada said: “I am deeply honoured to have been appointed by Her Majesty The Queen to become the next Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire and I look forward to representing Her Majesty across the county. It is important to me to support those who work to make this county prosper, ensuring opportunities are open to all. Bedfordshire is a truly beautiful and great place to live, and I look forward to serving the people who live and make their lives within it”.
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