Mary King ‘very honoured’ by new role
Eventing legend Mary King has a new title to add to her collection.
The Olympian has been appointed deputy lieutenant of Devon.
Her new role will involve assisting the lord-lieutenant, David Fursdon, and representing him at community events and local ceremonies.
Mary told H&H she feels “very honoured” to have been asked.
“I have had a lot of support from my local community here in the Sidmouth area in terms of support from people who have followed my career for years,” she said.
“Devon is very much where my roots are — I feel it is very much my home and I am proud to be living in such a lovely county.”
The lieutenancy office is the monarch’s “link” with the county and its role is to uphold the dignity of the crown and arrange royal visits to Devon.
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It also celebrates residents’ achievements, helps to promote the county’s culture and supports the forces, in particular the reserves and cadets.
Mr Fursdon took on his position a year ago.
“I think I am one of the first deputy lieutenants he has asked,” Mary said.
“We represent the county and if we do have any royal visitors, we are there to be on hand if they come to any particular functions or openings.”
Mary, who has competed at every Olympics since 1996 — winning two silver medals and one bronze — as well as winning the world’s biggest four-stars, was appointed on 24 March.
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“Mary, like I, feels proud to live in the wonderful county of Devon, and I am pleased that she will be taking up this important post,” said Mr Fursdon.
“She has been an inspiration to sportsmen and women, not only in Devon but also throughout the UK, where she is known and respected for her successful equestrian career.
“While she is of course also internationally acclaimed for her skill and talent as a three-day event rider, Mary remains firmly rooted in Devon.
“I know that her experience will bring a great deal to the Lieutenancy in the county.”
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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.