Posted on Tuesday 2nd May 2023
Vice Lord Lieutenant Mr Graham Robert Morley
A new Vice Lord-Lieutenant for the county has been appointed by Mr Ian Dudson CBE KStJ, the Lord-Lieutenant of Staffordshire, with HM The King’s approval.
Vice Lord-Lieutenant, Mr Graham Robert Morley was appointed to the role on Sunday 30 April 2023. He will support the Lord-Lieutenant in his duties and will stand-in for him when he is absent, sick, or otherwise unable to act.
Mr Morley was appointed to the lieutenancy in 2014 and has undertaken a lead role in the education panel, having been involved in further education colleges in Staffordshire for many years. He is a past President of the Staffordshire and Birmingham Agricultural Society and is currently Chair of the Staffordshire and West Midlands (North Sector) Army Cadet Force Friends Trust.
Mr Morley said: “I’m honoured to have been appointed as the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Staffordshire and I look forward to supporting Mr Dudson and the wider Lieutenancy team.
“Staffordshire is a great place to live, learn, volunteer and do business, and in my new role, I will be doing my utmost to ensure that the individuals and organisations who contribute to the success and achievements in our County are celebrated for the outstanding work they do.”
Mr Morley replaces Mr James Leavesley who was originally appointed a Deputy Lieutenant in 2011 and then Vice Lord-Lieutenant in 2019. During this time, he has been actively involved in royal visits, Honours investitures and the presentation of Queen’s Awards, as well as numerous other activities on behalf of the Lord-Lieutenant. He will continue to serve the county as an active DL.
Speaking about the appointment, Mr Dudson said that he looked forward to working with Mr Morley and warmly welcomed him to the role. He also paid tribute to Mr James Leavesley’s huge contribution to the county during his time as Vice Lord-Lieutenant.
Mr Dudson said: “I have greatly appreciated James’s help undertaking engagements and particularly his support and advice over the last 4 years. This support has been particularly welcome over the last 18 months, with the Platinum Jubilee, the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the planning for the Coronation of their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla.”