DUP man becomes Belfast's High Sheriff for second time
A DUP politician has becomes High Sheriff of Belfast for the second time, taking chains of office he last wore 17 years ago.
One of the oldest secular offices in Britain, the role dates back to the 1890s. Now a largely ceremonial position, it sees the holder providing support to the city’s Lord Mayor and Deputy Lord Mayor during their terms.
Alderman Frank McCoubrey last occupied the role in 2009, but today was sworn in as High Sheriff for a second time.
Said the representative of the Court district in the north-west of the city: “I am delighted to take up the role of High Sheriff once again
“I last wore this chain in 2009 and a lot has changed in our city since then, so I’m looking forward to re-engaging with this role, meeting with groups across the city and helping to showcase all that Belfast has to offer, especially in such a crucial year for visitors to our city.”
Alderman McCoubrey has been involved in community development in the capital city for more than 30 years and is also a member of the West Belfast District Policing and Community Safer Partnership.
He’s been a councillor for 27 years, and in 2024 was honoured with a BEM for his services to local government and the community in west and north Belfast.
Mr McCoubrey added that he’s delighted to be one of only four currently sitting politicians to have completed the “civic hat trick” by holding all three of Belfast’s major offices – Lord Mayor, Deputy Lord Mayor and High Sheriff.