When Berkshire’s Cadets Took Centre Stage
July 27, 2026
In the days since the Judicial Service, the notes, letters and emails we’ve received have been a wonderful reminder of just how much the occasion meant to people. It was a moving and uplifting day, and one I will carry with me for a long time.
So I want to begin by thanking the people whose generosity and care helped make it possible: the Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Barber, Mr and Mrs Graham Barker, Julian Walker from AB Walker and the many others who supported us.
The PCC supports the High Sheriffs of Berkshire each year. Graham, a former High Sheriff, and his wife also supported generously, and Graham has been a constant source of guidance as I have found my feet in this role. AB Walker provided the printed Order of Service booklets and cars. As an ordinary citizen of the Royal County, bringing the county together for an occasion like this, that support meant a great deal to me.
It helped us, Jonathan Gater, my under-sheriff and me, welcome judges from the Crown Court, Lady Justice Andrews, Mr Justice Dexter Dias and their clerks, alongside the many people who serve our county.
None of them asked for recognition or anything in return. But I wanted to say thank you. Not only for the practical help, but for understanding what this day meant and caring that bringing people together should not become a personal burden.
Over the coming days, I’ll share some of the history and moments that made the service so special: the start of the Legal Year; policing, probation and our blue light services; Reading Minster, Bishop Mary and the clergy; my poem, the cadets and SERFCA; the Lord-Lieutenant’s Office and our ushers; the Military Wives Choir; our team; and, finally, the bugler.
The whole was greater than the sum of its parts because this was a community effort. Thank you to everyone who joined us, and to everyone who cheered us on from afar. You helped make the day what it was.
If you missed the service, you can watch it here
