We are delighted to announce that we are the headline sponsor of Lichfield’s historic Sheriff’s Ride.
Sponsorship of this 471 year old unique event, the only one of its type in the UK, will build upon Lichfield’s history and traditions and most importantly help reach new generations, broaden its appeal and bring economic benefits to the whole area.
The Lichfield Shrievalty Association (a group of former Sheriffs of Lichfield) have taken on the responsibility of maintaining the Ride. One of Lichfield’s greatest and oldest traditions, the Ride is a horse mounted inspection of the ancient boundary of the City which began after Queen Mary gave Lichfield a Royal Charter. This charter separated Lichfield from Staffordshire and made it a county in its own right. This enabled Lichfield to appoint its own Sheriff who enforced the law and managed the prison. The first ride was undertaken in 1553 and has continued every year except for the Covid years. The first Sheriff was Gregorie Stonynge. The 2024 Sheriff is Cathy Wood, who will join the historic list of locals to bear the title.
Our sponsorship will allow the Ride to more include the younger generation and increase community involvement. 2024 will see the first ever appointment of a Junior Sheriff who will be selected from a local school. Also, during the year The Arthur Price Junior Sheriff Children’s Fund will be created to raise money to help more youngsters to experience horse riding for the first time. Finally, the cultural legacy of the Ride will be taught by the newly appointed Official Ride Historian, Jonathan ‘Jono’ Oates, who will visit local schools.
Further widening the community involvement will be the official inclusion of cyclists. Organisations such as The Alternative Sheriff’s Ride, will also be part of the celebration.
The Clerk of The Course, Nick Sedgwick, said “The Lichfield Shrievalty Association plans to improve the event. The Arthur Price sponsorship enables us to directly attract the younger generation which will enhance our work to widen the impact of The Ride. We have already seen an incredible response from our local community with the interest and support from many local organisations and individuals. Already businesses, landowners and volunteers have come together to keep this tradition alive. We will return The Lichfield Sheriff’s Ride to the forefront of Lichfield’s historic and cultural heritage.
“We concluded that during these tough economic times, the only way to take The Ride to the next level was with sponsorship. I am delighted that Arthur Price, a family-owned, local independent company has stepped forward to support us. Indeed, it was their wish for their sponsorship to evolve The Ride and I thank them for their foresight and support.”
Simon Price, CEO of Arthur Price said, “The pressure on budgets meant that the event, in its current format, needed to be supported. But with difficulty comes opportunity and I was very focused on identifying where the event could be improved – reaching a wider audience, gaining more community engagement, making an impact on the local economy and finally to leave a lasting legacy.
“If a tradition is lost it is very difficult to resurrect. The whole district is rich in history which makes it a wonderful place for residents and visitors alike. Indeed, it has just been named as one of the best places to live in the UK.
“With our sponsorship I hope to make the event relevant for today’s society and for the benefit of the whole community. Specifically, with a view to attracting the next generation and helping the local economy by bringing in people from outside the usual groups to participate. “As Lichfield’s famous lexicographer Samuel Johnson once said,…”make new things familiar and familiar things new.” With such a rich history, and a passionate group of organisers, The Ride is a sleeping giant of an occasion with huge potential for the local community.”
Former Sheriff, Daryl Brown, from The Lichfield Shrievalty Association said, “Simon Price has been very specific in his vision for the sponsorship and that the next generation is key. As a teacher I wholeheartedly agree.
“Last year’s Ride included both cyclists and horses, and was a resounding success. I envisage a City full of spectators watching the ceremonial procession of The Sheriff, The Junior Sheriff, The Ride of 75 horses and a host of cyclists.
“Such a display will unite local residents and visitors in a celebration of our unique cultural identity. This will, in turn, support the local economy, filling cafes and shops and welcoming new visitors to our historic City.”
The Lichfield Sheriff’s Ride will take place on Saturday 7th September 2024, starting in the morning, at The Guildhall on Bore Street. It will then make its way around the historic 20 mile boundary before returning via Lichfield Cathedral at around 4:30pm. To find out more, support or participate, visit www.sheriffoflichfield.org.uk.
Arthur Price has announced that it’s Perfect Christmas event in November has raised £1760 for We Love Lichfield. The event was a roaring success with over 140 people attending the special evening event and through raffle ticket sales and a donation by Arthur Price of £10 during November 2017 for every £100 spend in its Lichfield shop, the event raised a large amount for The Fund.