The Essex Lieutenancy

HM Lord-Lieutenant of Essex

His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Essex is Mrs Jennifer Tolhurst, the first woman to be appointed to the office in the county since it was established in the 1500s.

She is His Majesty the King’s personal representative in the county.

The main duty of the Lord-Lieutenant is to uphold the dignity of the Crown in Essex, including encouraging voluntary service and benevolent organisations, helping to create a spirit of co-operation in the county, supporting business and industry and the social life of Essex. The appointment is non-political and unpaid.

A head and shoulders shot of Lord Lieutenant of Essex Jennifer Tolhurst. She wears a dark jacket with the Lord Lieutenant medal on her left breast. She wears a necklaces of two short strings of pearls, pearl stud earrings and a dark pillbox hat. Behind her is a Union Jack unfurled and stained glass windows.

News from Essex

  • New Year Honours 2026 logo

    28 Essex people recognised in the New Year’s Honours list 2026

  • A view from the behind a seated audience in a large room. In the distance a projector screen shows the words Cllr Ray Gooding, Chair, Essex County Council.

    Fifteen voluntary groups are thanked at a special reception

  • Graphic of crown above the words King’s Birthday Honours 2025

    More than 20 Essex people honoured in the King’s Birthday Honours list 2025

Honours

If you know a person or organisation who has made a significant difference in their community or field of work, or who has achieved great things against the odds, then please consider nominating them for an honour.

Find out more about honours for:

Individuals >
Voluntary Groups >
Businesses >

Contact Us

Third Floor
Marlborough House
Victoria Road South
Chelmsford
Essex CM1 1LN

T: 01245 809884

enquiries@essex-lieutenancy.org.uk

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