A well-known Towns' funeral director was officially appointed as High Sheriff of Kent at a formal ceremony at his local church.

John Weir, who has run his family business for 50 years, took up the oldest secular office under the Crown at a service at St Margaret's, Rainham, attended by his close family.

But while the proceedings overseen by Judge David Griffiths-Jones with recorded prayers from the Bishop of Rochester, the Rt Rev James Langstaff and the Dean the Very Rev Dr Philip Hesketh were traditional, there was not the usual reception attended by friends and dignitaries afterwards, due to Covid restrictions.

Instead, Mr Weir, wife Beverley, son James, his wife Alison and twin grand-daughters, Abigail and Jenny, celebrated with takeaway fish and chips at the family home in Hempstead.

Mr Weir said: "There would normally be a high tea afterwards. But I'm grateful I could have those in my family bubble with me and my wife was able to place the pendant around my neck."

Also in attendance on Friday was the outgoing High Sheriff, Remony Millwater, and the Rev Nathan Ward who conducted the service.

He said: "I'm pleased it was in my local church. It also held some resonance for Mrs Millwater as her father is buried there.

"It was different, but felt like a real privilege, I am deeply honoured and humbled."

Mr Weir, a former Upbury Manor, now Brompton Academy pupil, has served as a Justice of the Peace at Medway Magistrates' Court for 24 years.

He has funeral parlours in Rainham, Chatham, Parkwood and Gillingham.

There is a High Sheriff, the oldest royal appointment – dating back to the 11th century, in every county in England and Wales officially appointed by the Queen.

The ceremony was to have taken place on Saturday but was brought forward because to the Duke of Edinburgh's funeral.

The role is independent and non-political for a year with its origins dating back to Saxon times when the "Shire Reeve" was responsible to the monarch for the maintenance of law and order and for the collection and return of taxes due the Crown.

Today, there are 55 High Sheriffs nominated for the unpaid role.

The duties have changed over the years, but supporting the Crown and the judiciary remain key elements.

They also work with crime prevention agencies, the emergency services and the voluntary sector as well as help the Lord Lieutenant on royal visits and other similar occasions.

Read more: All the latest news from Medway