The Isle of Wight's new High Sheriff has been unveiled at an official swearing-in ceremony.

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Dawn Haig-Thomas, of Barton Manor in East Cowes, has taken up the role from outgoing incumbent, Kay Marriott.

At a ceremony at the estate this morning (Monday), she revealed her theme for the year to be 'literacy'.

Dawn moved to the Island in 2012, alongside her husband Alex, three children and three dogs.

Isle of Wight County Press:

Isle of Wight County Press:

The new High Sheriff has a degree in Politics and Modern History, and spent a year at business school before pursuing a career in management consultancy.

She said a posting to India is what changed her life's path.

There, she was able to venture into international development and won recognition from the Clinton Global Initiative and World Economic Forum for her work.

Since moving to the Island, Dawn has served as vice chair of the board for UKSA.

She said her work as a school governor has fuelled her conviction that the single most empowering tool for a child is the ability to read.

Isle of Wight County Press: Signing the declaration.Signing the declaration. (Image: Isle of Wight County Press)

Isle of Wight County Press: Wearing the High Sheriff medal.Wearing the High Sheriff medal. (Image: Isle of Wight County Press)

"It's an honour to be taking over as High Sheriff for the Isle of Wight", she told the County Press.

"My theme is literacy. I think it's important for so many reasons and more necessary than ever after the pandemic.

"There has been 100 school days lost on the Isle of Wight and UK, of a normal school year of 200 days.

"We can only guess the catastrophic outcome both personally and for society as a whole.

"We need to all step up as a community and help out and help out children bring their reading skills up to the stage that they should be at."

Outgoing High Sheriff Kay Marriott said serving in the role at a time when the country changed monarchs was one of her memorable moments.

She said: "People often ask me what are the best bits.

"The rewarding parts have been being able to thank people, give High Sheriff awards and support through the High Sheriff's Trust.

"I've been honoured to support in civic duties, including the events of last September.

"Although a sad occasion with the passing of our late Queen, it was an incredible experience to make a proclamation and the accession of King Charles III. 

"Playing a small part in history, is one of my proudest moments."

Meanwhile, April Louise Newton, of Newport, has been reappointed as Under Sheriff.