The High Sheriff Fund

For the 2026/27 shrieval year, Worcestershire Community Foundation is delighted to be working with the new High Sheriff for Worcestershire, Maynard Burton.

WCF hosts The High Sheriff Fund, which acts as a catalyst for all funding raised by each High Sheriff during their shrieval year; he/she then decides which local causes they wish to support.

Maynard’s Background

A retired solicitor, Maynard and his wife Caroline raised their three children in Stourport-on-Severn where they have lived for almost 60 years.  He was a partner and chairman at county law firm mfg Solicitors for over 40 years retiring in 2023. Qualifying in 1983, he went on to become a senior partner and board member, including a record 17 years as chairman, overseeing the firm’s growth across the region.

In October 2022 Maynard was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Worcestershire Law Society for his contribution to the legal sector. He has also played a key role as a trustee for a number of charities including The Mackaness Trust, and is a former chair and president of Stourport Tennis and Squash Club.

Maynard’s Shrieval Year

The new High Sheriff plans to champion causes around young people and the community’s unsung heroes during his 12 months in office. He plans to work closely with schools and reformed offenders, including children who were formerly in care to provide them with greater support and opportunities.

In a new initiative, Maynard also plans to develop links with St John Ambulance, where he will look to appoint two cadets as High Sheriff Cadets for the year. He will also continue the successful ‘Getting Court’ scheme. This enables groups of school students to attend live Crown Court sessions. Its unique impacts provide a greater understanding of law and order and the judicial system, highlighting life lessons from those who made bad choices. Over time, it aids crime prevention and provides inspiration for careers in the areas represented in the Court.

Maynard said:

“First and foremost, it’s a great honour to be appointed as High Sheriff of Worcestershire. The role has historic roots stretching back more than a thousand years and is a direct appointment by His Majesty the King. I will focus on providing support and encouragement to the offices and agencies of law and order, the emergency services, local authorities and the voluntary sector.

During my year in office, I also plan to shine a light on those who work with young people and celebrate the service and contribution of the extraordinary unsung heroes across the county. I will be doing all I can to continue the outstanding work that’s come before me. This is a tremendous honour for me and my family, and I plan to do Worcestershire proud.”

To make a donation to the High Sheriff Fund go to: https://www.worcscf.org.uk/appeals/the-high-sheriffs-fund/