The Lord-Lieutenant of East Sussex

The King’s representative

The King appoints the Lord-Lieutenant to act on his behalf in East Sussex. The title dates back to the reign of Henry VIII when it had a military function. As there was no full-time army, the Lord-Lieutenant was charged with calling men of the county to arms when needed.

The role of the Lord-Lieutenant is now non-political and unpaid.

Mr Andrew Blackman CStJ became the Lord-Lieutenant of East Sussex in August 2021.

Royal duties

The Lord-Lieutenant's duties include:

  • representing The King within East Sussex
  • arranging royal visits to the county and escorting royal visitors when appropriate
  • participating in civic and social activities - these include direct and indirect support to a wide range of groups, benevolent organisations, industry, and local businesses
  • liaising with local armed forces units
  • submitting honours nominations
  • submitting royal garden party nominations
  • presenting honours and awards on behalf of The King

Keeper of the Rolls (Custos Rotulorum)

As well as representing The King, the Lord-Lieutenant of East Sussex has agreed to hold the post of Keeper of the Rolls for the Lord Chancellor and Lord Chief Justice. This post dates back to the 15th century. The rolls were the records of the Court of Quarter Sessions, an administrative as well as judicial body.

Contact the Lord Lieutenant

For more information about all aspects of the Lieutenancy visit the HM Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex website.

You can contact the Lord-Lieutenant by:

  • Email - lordlieutenant@eastsussex.gov.uk 
  • Telephone - 01273 336125/07561 024028
  • Post - James Butler, Lieutenancy Officer, East Sussex County Council, Lieutenancy Office – C3E, County Hall, St Anne’s Crescent, Lewes, BN7 1UE