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The chief executive of a global technology firm has been appointed as the new High Sheriff of Gwent for 2023/24.

Professor Simon Gibson CBE, 65, was appointed to the ceremonial role – which dates back more than 1,000 years – on March 30.

Prof Gibson, is the chief executive of Wesley Clover Wales, which was founded by billionaire tycoon Sir Terry Matthews, who is originally from Newbridge.

A ceremony was held at the International Convention Centre Wales, near Newport, to appoint Prof Gibson as Gwent’s 50th High Sheriff.

He succeeds former Caerphilly County Borough Council chief executive Malgwyn Davies in the role after his year-long term came to an end.

What is the High Sheriff?

Each year, a High Sheriff is appointed for each county in England, and each traditional county in Wales, for a year-long term.

The tradition dates back more than 1,000 years, with 55 High Sheriffs appointed across Wales and England each year.

In the past, these figures had responsibilities such as collecting taxes and judging cases, but in modern times, the High Sheriff is mainly a ceremonial role, promoting voluntary organisations and supporting emergency services, law-enforcement agencies and religious groups.

The role is unpaid and isn’t associated with any political party.

The ‘Gwent’ area covers Caerphilly County Borough, as well as Blaenau Gwent, Newport, Torfaen and Monmouthshire.

Groups in this area can receive funding from the High Sheriff’s Community Fund.

The fund provides support to initiatives and projects working with young people, with an emphasis on young people at risk, crime prevention, drugs and substance misuse and community safety.

Chosen theme

Prof Gibson, who lives in Monmouth, will serve alongside his wife, Sue Gibson, who will be the High Sheriff’s Consort over the next 12 months.

High Sheriffs are able to choose a particular theme to focus on during their tenure. Owing to his tech background, Prof Gibson has chosen online safety and cyber security as his chosen theme.

He said: “This issue affects us all, damaging lives and increasingly consuming already stretched law enforcement resources.

“To this aim, I am pleased to launch the High Sheriff of Gwent web platform.

“As well as accessing facts on the Shrievalty and county of Gwent, the website provides information and tutorials to help increase awareness of online safety. It offers countermeasures to protect our families and businesses from the onslaught of online criminals’ illegal and nefarious activities.”

Prof Gibson added: “I look forward to meeting people across the county of Gwent and highlighting the excellent work being undertaken by so many wonderful people in the voluntary sector.”