Guernsey's Richard Collas appointed next Bailiff

Guernsey's 89th Bailiff, Richard Collas, has been sworn in to office during a ceremony at St James.

A full sitting of the Royal Court attended the event along with States members, advocates and members of the armed forces.

The ceremony was carried out in French and English, in accordance with local tradition, and involved the receipt of a royal warrant from the Queen.

Mr Collas takes over the position of Bailiff from Sir Geoffrey Rowland.

During the ceremony, he took an oath in front of members, and was then invited to wear his new official robes.

In taking on the role, Mr Collas also became the Bailiwick's Deputy Lieutenant Governor.

Air Marshal Peter Walker, the Lieutenant Governor, said: "I know that Sir Geoffrey [Rowland] greatly admires and respects you. So do I.

"I very much welcome the fact that I will be working alongside a distinguished son of the Bailiwick."

Mr Collas also took on the title of the Bailiwick's Deputy Lieutenant Governor

In his closing speech, the new Bailiff thanked the Royal Court for the welcome they had given him.

Richard Collas took on the role of Deputy Bailiff in June 2005, at the same time as Sir Geoffrey Rowland took on the role of Bailiff.

In his new job as Bailiff, he will preside over the Guernsey's States of Deliberation and the island's judiciary.

Mr Collas was born and educated in Guernsey, and attended university in the UK.

He qualified as a barrister in 1982 and the following year returned to Guernsey where he became a Royal Court advocate.

During the ceremony, Mr Collas spoke about his wife Mandy, who passed away last year.

He said: "I know how much she was looking forward to this day and supporting me as Bailiff. Sadly, that is not to be.

"I thank my family and friends for all their comfort and support as I take on my new responsibilities."

HM Comptroller Richard McMahon is due to be appointed as Deputy Bailiff next week to replace Mr Collas.