By Mike Kapur, His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire
A new year marks a time of transition, allowing us to reflect on the past, and look to the future. On a personal level, 2024 marked a significant changeover within the Lieutenancy.
Col. Murray Colville who was appointed as Vice Lord- Lieutenant under my predecessor, Lady Gretton, in 2013,
and has continued in this role since my appointment in 2018, will be stepping down as the Vice Lord-Lieutenant.
Picture credit: Pukaar News
I cannot thank Murray enough for his unwavering support, kindness, and dedication over the past six years since I became Lord- Lieutenant. Col. Colville whilst stepping down as Vice Lord- Lieutenant will still remain in the Lieutenancy family as a Deputy Lieutenant. To replace Col. Colville I have appointed. Col. Richard Hurwood to the role of Vice Lord-Lieutenant and I know he will perform his duties with all the excellence of his predecessor.
Nationally, several significant WW2 anniversaries have taken place over the last two years, and I have been reflecting on the role of our Armed Forces, and the ways we mark their sacrifices, bravery, and commitment.
In 2024, a special service was held at Leicester Cathedral for the 80th anniversary of D-Day- a moving occasion, where we came together to remember the bravery and sacrifice of those who served. We also commemorated these sacrifices on Armistice Day, and I was proud that my Deputy Lieutenants were present at Remembrance events across Leicester and Leicestershire to share in this national day of reflection and gratitude.
Looking forward, the 8th May marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE day), and the 15th August marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Japan (VJ day). As with D-Day, these anniversaries will be both a time of celebration and of sadness – a time for remembering the fallen, and for celebrating the peace and freedoms we still share thanks to their bravery. The Lieutenancy is working alongside the Cathedral and Leicester City Council to ensure these anniversaries are properly marked.
As well as reflecting, we must also recognise those currently serving. On Armed Forces Day, Saturday 28th June, we will come together to celebrate the members of our current Armed Forces with a parade in Leicester City, as well as other events across the County. The contributions and sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces and their families are immense, and it is only right that we recognise the unique challenges they face.
I also held the Investiture for my Cadets, who support me for a year, in November, which was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the incredible contribution that the Armed Forces, and other civilian organisations, offer to our communities and to our young people. My cadets are always a credit to their units and families at any event they attend to support me.
The Lieutenancy has long had a strong association with the Armed Forces, and as we move into 2025, I am looking forward to ensuring we recognise the contributions the Armed Forces have, and continue, to offer for the sake of our freedom, safety, and peace.
