HSYAReview2024 - Flipbook - Page 3
Review of the year 2024-2025
As I come to the close of my second term as High
Sheriff of Surrey, I find myself reflecting on what has
truly been an extraordinary privilege. To serve this
wonderful county in such a distinguished role has
been a humbling experience — one that I will always
hold dear. This role brings you face to face with the
very heart of Surrey — our police officers, fire and
rescue teams, NHS staff, the judiciary, our prison and
probation services, coroners, and the remarkable
volunteers who give so much of themselves each
day. Alongside them are leaders in education, local
government, and health, all working tirelessly to
ensure Surrey remains a place where people can live,
work, and thrive.
I have been continually inspired by the passion and
commitment shown by people from every walk of life.
It has been a joy to attend so many special events
and meet individuals whose contributions too often
go unrecognised — yet whose impact is deeply felt.
These are the people who make Surrey the
extraordinary community it is, and I am deeply
grateful to each and every one of them.
I would also like to take a moment to thank those
who have supported me throughout this incredible
journey. To my family, friends, and colleagues — your
unwavering support has been the foundation of this
year. A special thank you goes to my two cadets,
Kieran and Ruby. You’ve both been outstanding, and
it’s been a pleasure to watch you grow into fine
young leaders.
This year, I have focused on several key themes
close to my heart — particularly the importance of
faith, justice, and community service. With the
support of His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, we’ve
made significant progress through the Surrey Faith
Forum, bringing together diverse communities in
shared understanding and respect. In collaboration
with the coroner’s office, we have seen the
development of a new mortuary and non-intrusive
post-mortem facilities in Bagshot — a project that
will benefit many families and improve the dignity of
care during difficult times. We also launched the very
first Justice of the Peace Forum, where businesses
and corporate partners pledged their support to JPs
— an important step in strengthening community
justice and promoting civic engagement. Another
initiative particularly close to my heart is our work
with Surplus to Supper, which began at Sunbury
Cricket Club to tackle food poverty. Thanks to the
dedication of many, it has now expanded into
Aldershot, and with hope and continued support,
may soon reach other sports venues across the
country.
As I now hand over the mantle of High Sheriff to my
successor, Peter Cluff, I do so with complete
confidence that he will carry forward this work with
passion, diligence and compassion. I look forward
to watching how this work continues to evolve and
flourish in the years to come. I offer my deepest
thanks to each and every one of you for your support
over the past year. It has been the honour of a
lifetime to serve as your High Sheriff and thank all for
supporting the quite outstanding work of the HSYA
during my Shrieval year. Though I step down from
this role, I do so with a heart full of pride and an
unwavering commitment to continue serving this
county that I love so dearly.
Shahid Azeem DL
High Sheriff of Surrey 2024-2025
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