Sam Galsworthy, 48, High Sheriff of Cornwall and 10th generation Cornish
What does a High Sheriff do?
There have been sheriffs in England for over 1,000 years. Appointed annually by the King and self-funded, they represent him in each county in matters relating to the judiciary, criminal justice system and more widely in law and order. Supporting charities and the voluntary sector is now a significant part of the role where we get to shine a light on unsung heroes and movements doing extraordinary things.
What do you hope to achieve during your year?
I have learned about the sheer brilliance and bravery taking place within the police force and criminal justice system generally. I want to showcase some of this so people better understand and appreciate the extraordinary everything they actually do for us all.
I want to raise awareness for causes dear to my heart such A Band of Brothers – a charity that mentors disaffected young men, many with a relationship with the criminal justice system and mental health concerns and supports them to thrive in their communities - it’s impact is not as widely understood as they deserve to be.
You are custodian of Trewithen, what do you love about the estate?
We have some astonishing people that make up the estate from farmers, tenants and a vibrant workforce. But equally the nature that resides on the land is quite something. We are doing as much as we possibly can to nurture this and restore habitats ensuring that we can be home to even more of the wonders of nature in the future.
An abiding memory was at the age of 11 seeing the then Duke of Cornwall arrive at the house to visit the garden - it was a quietly kept secret (particularly from me!). I decided to climb out my bedroom window and spy on him. HRH was duly made aware of my woeful attempts at espionage, and he came to find me, cowering as I was in a camellia bush. While I froze on the ground with the now King stood over me, he graciously thought I should consider honing my skills by joining the army before I ran away!
The Roseland for me has everything in it, primarily the kind and proud folk that I share it with. We’re close to the sea yet based in a rural idyl; Portscatho and St Mawes but a stone’s throw away. Sea swimming on Pendower and Carne beaches. Hidden Hut and The Standard Inn both by Simon Stallard and his unstoppable team are pretty much weekly stopovers for us.
Best place for a staycation?
Helford. When our son was rather poorly for a few years, we decamped to Gillan every year for two unforgettable weeks. We’re also partial to an annual pilgrimage to the Isles of Scilly which is also hard to beat.
Favourite view?
The view from the Nare Head. I’ve been walking there for years and it’s evocative in any weather.
What sums up Cornwall for you?
Wellies in summer, ice creams in winter, Falmouth Working Boats racing, Pirates rugby and a pint of Tribute.
What have you learned about the county during your time as High Sheriff?
I have learnt that Cornwall has the highest ratio of volunteering for its population in the UK. Over a third of us give our time for nothing to help and support others in need. Now if that doesn’t say everything you need to know about who we are as Cornish I don’t know what does.
