A New Chapter for Staffordshire’s Lord-Lieutenant
Elizabeth Barnes has officially taken on the role of Lord-Lieutenant of Staffordshire, a position she described as both an honor and a significant responsibility. Her appointment followed the retirement of Sir Ian Dudson, who had held the role since 2012. Barnes, who had previously served as a deputy lieutenant since 2020, admitted she never expected to be considered for the top position. “It was the most amazing surprise,” she said, reflecting on her initial reaction to the news.
Barnes’ first official engagement in her new role was with the MOD Stafford, a fitting start given that Lord-Lieutenants were originally appointed by Henry VIII to oversee the armed forces in their respective counties. This connection to military history resonated with her, and she emphasized the importance of maintaining those ties in modern times.
In addition to her work with the military, Barnes has already participated in several high-profile events, including graduation ceremonies at Keele University and the University of Staffordshire. These engagements aligned with her previous career in education, where she began as a PE and Maths teacher at Longton High School and Bilbrook Middle School before moving into roles within higher education institutions.
She believes the role of Lord-Lieutenant remains crucial in connecting the royal family with the people and communities across the country. “The King is very passionate about his awards—particularly for voluntary services, and for businesses, for enterprise,” she explained. “It’s keeping the royal family in touch with what’s going on across our country.”
Barnes also highlighted the importance of community engagement, noting that the position allows for meaningful interactions with local organizations, charities, and individuals. She expressed gratitude for the support she has received from her predecessor, Sir Ian Dudson, who provided guidance during her transition into the role. Additionally, she met with other Lord-Lieutenants at Windsor Castle to better understand the responsibilities and expectations of the position.
Despite feeling “a little daunted” at first, Barnes has been warmly welcomed by the public and local leaders. “What is great is that we recognize how important our Royal Family are, still, to our communities,” she said.
One of the unique aspects of her role is that Staffordshire is home to the National Memorial Arboretum, a site of national significance. Being Lord-Lieutenant for such a county is, in her words, “a huge honour.”
As she continues to build relationships and carry out her duties, Barnes remains committed to representing the county with dedication and respect. Her background in education and community service has prepared her well for the challenges ahead, and she is eager to make a positive impact through her work.
Throughout her tenure, she aims to foster connections between the monarchy and the people of Staffordshire, ensuring that the role remains relevant and valued in today’s society. Whether attending university graduations, engaging with local businesses, or supporting military initiatives, Barnes is determined to uphold the traditions of the position while embracing its evolving responsibilities.
