Past parent, Susan Lousada, was recently appointed Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire. She takes over from Helen Nellis CVO CStJ, also a past parent, who held the position for over 10 years, and was the first woman to take on the role in Bedfordshire for 500 years.
Mrs Lousada is well known in Bedfordshire for her contribution to education, the voluntary sector and businesses across the county. She has previously served as the County’s High Sheriff.
Susan was deeply honoured to be appointed by Her Majesty The Queen to become the next Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, and was saddened by the news of her recent passing. She offered her condolences on behalf of the county to HM the King and Queen Consort and looks forward to representing His Majesty across the county.
Talking about her new role, she said that “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.”
Mrs Lousada paid tribute to her predecessor, saying Helen Nellis “has always demonstrated dignity, integrity, energy and absolute commitment whilst carrying out this role.”
During her time as Lord-Lieutenant, Mrs Nellis worked tirelessly to shine a light on those people that are trying to build stronger communities, including young people.
The role of the Lord-Lieutenant is to represent the King in the county. The role is very varied and some of the activities include arranging royal visits to the county, nominating local people for Royal Garden Party invitations, presenting national awards to volunteers and businesses on behalf of His Majesty, chairing the Advisory Committee for the appointment of Magistrates, establishing links with military organisations, supporting young people to thrive and promoting benevolent activity in the county. When representing His Majesty, Mrs Lousada will wear the traditional enamelled badge of office depicting the Tudor Rose, which was introduced by King Henry VII.
We thank Mrs Nellis for all her work and wish Mrs Lousada good luck as she takes on the role of representing our new king, Charles III, in the county.