The Life of a Deputy Lieutenant of Staffordshire

What is a Lord-Lieutenant? What does a Deputy Lieutenant actually do? And how does the work of the Monarchy reach into communities across the country?

Every county in the United Kingdom has a Lord-Lieutenant who serves as His Majesty The King’s personal representative within their county. Supporting them are Deputy Lieutenants – local people appointed to assist the Lord-Lieutenant in carrying out the work of the Lieutenancy.

Staffordshire’s 31st Lord-Lieutenant is Professor Elizabeth Barnes CBE, supported by a team of Deputy Lieutenants from across the county.

In The Life of a Deputy Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Lee Bates BEM, DL provides a fascinating personal insight into the Lieutenancy and his experiences serving as one of Staffordshire’s Deputy Lieutenants.

Where did the Lieutenancy come from? How are Deputy Lieutenants appointed? What happens when you represent the Lord-Lieutenant at an engagement? And what is the connection between Buckingham Palace, the Monarch and our local communities?

The talk explores the centuries-old history of the Lieutenancy, from its origins and historic military responsibilities to its very different role in modern Britain.

Lee takes audiences behind the scenes of the role, explaining some of the traditions, protocols and ceremonial duties involved – including the distinctive Deputy Lieutenant's uniform – alongside the much broader community role of the modern Lieutenancy.

Discover how the Lord-Lieutenant and Deputy Lieutenants support Royal Visits, community and civic occasions, the Armed Forces and Cadets, voluntary organisations, honours nominations, The King’s Awards and the recognition of extraordinary people making a difference in their communities.

Drawing upon his own experiences as a serving Deputy Lieutenant, Lee shares some of the memorable occasions, people and communities he has encountered along the way and explains what it feels like to represent the Lieutenancy at a local event.

Above all, the talk explores how an institution with centuries of history continues to connect The King, the Crown and the communities they serve.

Whether you are interested in the Monarchy, British history, ceremonial traditions or simply curious about what a Deputy Lieutenant actually does, this talk offers an accessible and entertaining glimpse behind the scenes of one of Britain's oldest institutions.

From Crown to County – discover the history, traditions and modern-day life of a Deputy Lieutenant.