Lord Lieutenant of Kent The Lady of Colgrain, His Majesty’s King Charles III personal representative in Kent has appointed Gurvinder Sandher MBE as a Deputy Lieutenant with a particular focus on Dartford, honouring him for his positive contributions to the County and the Nation over many years of service.

The appointment is the latest honour to be bestowed upon Gurvinder who was recently awarded an MBE in Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s last Honours list this summer.

The Deputy Lieutenancy role will see Gurvinder support the Lord Lieutenant of Kent and the Crown in a range of duties including greeting and accompanying royalty and heads of state during official visits to the county, the presentation of honours and awards, participation in citizenship ceremonies, offering advice during the organisation of events and helping community groups raise awareness of and gain recognition for their work.

Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL commented, “I am truly humbled to be given this new role. It was totally unexpected and I was shocked when I received the letter. As a son of immigrants from North Kent this is a proud moment not just for me and my family but also the community partners we have worked with. I am aware of the great work done by The Lady Colgrain, her office and the Deputy Lieutenants, which is invaluable to the communities in Kent, acting as a representative for the highest role in the nation, that of His Majesty the King. I hope over the coming years I can contribute positively, highlighting the great work being delivered by individuals and community groups around Kent.”

6 other Deputy Lieutenants were appointed at the same time. These were Ms Judith Armitt (Medway); Sir Stephen Deuchar CBE (Ashford); Mrs Tracy Luke MBE (Folkestone and Hythe); Mr James Ryeland (Dover); Mrs Susie Warran-Smith CBE (Folkestone and Hythe); Mr Paul O’Grady MBE (Ashford).

His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Kent, The Lady Colgrain said: “I am thrilled to be able to welcome these outstanding new Deputy Lieutenants, whose wide breadth of experience will further enhance an already strong team of Deputies who support the Lord-Lieutenant and act as the eyes and ears for the Lieutenancy throughout our wonderfully diverse county.”