The Lord-Lieutenant holds the position as the personal representative of His Majesty for the County. The Lord-Lieutenant’s primary responsibility is to uphold the dignity of the Crown and perform essential duties. In adhering to the general example set by The King and other members of the Royal Family, the Lord-Lieutenant strives to foster a positive atmosphere and spirit of cooperation. The Lord-Lieutenant actively promotes voluntary service, benevolent organisations, local businesses, and contributes to the social well-being of the County.
Main Duties include:
Arranging and coordinating Royal visits to the County, ensuring smooth and dignified arrangements for such occasions.
Acting as a representative of The King or other members of the Royal Family at various events, embodying the Royal presence and enhancing the sense of occasion.
Nurturing and promoting a wide spectrum of voluntary activities within the community. Fostering connections with civic, business, and social leaders to encourage a strong sense of community engagement.
Supporting and advocating for local businesses, engaging in visits to these establishments to acknowledge their contributions to the region’s economy and prosperity.
Actively participating in the honours system, fostering public awareness about this system, encouraging nominations, and playing a role in assessing and presenting certain honours, medals, and awards on behalf of The King.
Facilitating invitations to Royal Garden parties, coordinating the attendance of distinguished guests and members of the public, and ensuring the smooth organisation of these prestigious events.
Providing unwavering support to the Armed Forces, their Cadet Associations, and the local Volunteer Reserve Forces, recognising their invaluable contributions to the nation’s security and well-being.
Conveying messages of congratulations from His Majesty to individuals celebrating significant milestones, such as their 100th Birthday or 60th Wedding Anniversaries, recognising and honouring these special occasions.
Presiding over Citizenship Ceremonies that welcome and embrace new UK citizens who have chosen to make Northern Ireland their home, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion.
Undertaking the vital role of selecting and appointing Deputy Lieutenants (DLs) and a Vice Lord-Lieutenant, entrusting individuals with these esteemed positions to represent and uphold the values and duties of the Lord-Lieutenant's office.
Mr Gawn Rowan Hamilton, was appointed as Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of County Down in September 2021, succeeding Mr David Lindsay CVO. Gawn became His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant on the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022.
Educated at Eton College and Cambridge University, Gawn was an accountant by training with a city career spanning from Ernst & Young to Schroders Plc before becoming Chief Financial Officer and Co-founder of Mergermarket Ltd.
In a voluntary capacity, Gawn helped establish the Hans Sloane 350 Society and was President of the River Dibney Conservation Trust and International Fly Fishing Fair in his native Killyleagh, Co. Down. He is also the treasurer of the Killyleagh Community Association and very focused on improving community led life.
