Duke of Buccleuch installed as High Steward

He succeeds Lord Luce who retired on Tuesday after five years' service in the role.

The office of High Steward has its origins in the 16th century. From 1560 until 1612 the office was held in succession by William Cecil, Lord Burghley and his son Robert Cecil, Earl of Salisbury, both of whom also served as chief ministers of the monarch. The High Steward, the most senior honorary appointment of the Dean and Chapter, acts principally as an external adviser to the Dean and Chapter and is present at many of the most important services held in the Abbey.

This is not the first time a Duke of Buccleuch has served as High Steward. The fifth Duke was High Steward from 1842 to 1884.

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist for the Translation of St Edward the Confessor, 2016