Colonel James Arkell, new High Sheriff of Wiltshire.THE new High Sheriff of Wiltshire carried out his first official engagement when he attended Salisbury's first citizenship ceremony on Wednesday last week.

A South African woman, who did not want to be named, became the second person in the county to be awarded citizenship in the new ceremony, introduced this year.

She was welcomed at Salisbury register office by the high sheriff, Mayor Bobbie Chettleburgh, and Patrick Paisey, vice chairman of Salisbury district council.

New citizens swear allegiance to the Queen, pledge to respect the UK's rights and freedoms, and are invited to sing the national anthem.

Currently, 47 applicants are waiting to be awarded citizenship in Wiltshire.

High Sheriff Lieutenant Colonel James Arkell (53) made his first appearance in the traditional black velvet sheriff's uniform.

Col Arkell, from Stratton in Swindon, said: "My grandfather, Noel, was made High Sheriff of Wiltshire in 1953 and this is his original uniform - apart from the shoes!"

The office of high sheriff is more than 1,000 years old and the Queen chooses the sheriff by pinning a silver bobbin on a list of nominees made by the county.

The new sheriff, managing director of a small family brewery, spent 22 years as a part-time soldier and commanded the Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry.

He said his first 15 days in office had gone well. "It's wonderful," he added. "I'm sure this year will be great fun."