Mark Llewellin begins new chapter as High Sheriff of Greater Manchester

Mark Llewellin DL has officially taken on the role of High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, with the ceremony marking his appointment held at Dukinfield Town Hall on Saturday, April 11th.

The occasion marked the start of a year in which Mr Llewellin will take on one of the county’s most historic civic duties, supporting the judiciary, police, emergency services, local authorities and voluntary organisations across Greater Manchester. Although the office is now largely ceremonial, it remains an important symbol of public service and community support.

Mr Llewellin brings to the role a long record of involvement in the arts, charity work and local civic life. Born in Bristol and raised in the west country, he discovered his love of theatre at an early age through amateur dramatics and school performances. That passion led him to study performing arts in Yorkshire before moving to London, where he worked at a drama school, took calls for the 999 service and worked as a broadcaster for London Transport.

His connection with heritage and public service also developed during this time. He volunteered at the historic Highgate Cemetery, where he later became a Freeman of Highgate. It was there that he met actor Roy Barraclough MBE, who would become his partner for the next quarter of a century.

After moving to Tameside, Mr Llewellin became deeply involved in the local community. He took on charity work, was appointed Marketing Director at the Oldham Coliseum Theatre and became a familiar figure through his work with local arts and heritage projects. He also became the guide for the annual visits by Canadian Coronation Street fans to Greater Manchester, a role he has continued for many years.

Alongside this, he became Joint Managing Director and co-owners of Daisy Nook Garden Centre for 15 years. His freelance career has included work for a wide range of organisations across Greater Manchester, including The Lowry, The Prince’s Trust and the Oldham Chronicle. He has also performed at venues including The Water Rats, Bloomsbury Theatre and The Lowry, while continuing to write and perform and appearing as co-host of the online TV show Your Manchester with Belinda Scandal.

Mr Llewellin was commissioned as a Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester in 2024. He is also patron of Guide Bridge Theatre, a life member of Highgate Cemetery and a member of the British Music Hall Society.

The office of High Sheriff has a remarkable history stretching back more than 1,000 years to the reign of Saxon King Ethelred the Unready. In its earliest form, the role carried real power, High Sheriffs were responsible for law and order, tax collection and even organising the enforcement of public executions. Over time, however, the office has evolved into a mainly ceremonial position, with duties now focused on supporting the justice system and civic life.

During his shrieval year, Mr Llewellin will be supported by a team of consorts, including Mrs Sharman Birtles MBE JP DL, Mr Andrew Calder, Mrs Anna Dyson, Miss Beth Dyson, Mrs Jane Hodson, Mr Gavin Johnson, Miss Barbara Knox MBE, Mrs Cynthia Openshaw and Miss Belinda Scandal.

His appointment reflects not only a long career in entertainment and community work, but also a continued commitment to Greater Manchester. As High Sheriff, he now takes his place in one of the county’s oldest public offices, carrying forward a tradition rooted in service, ceremony and civic pride.