Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire
The Bedfordshire Lieutenancy is here for to serve all of those living within the county and seeks to foster community cohesion, increase awareness and cooperation, across all organisations and groups.
His Majesty the King appoints a Lord Lieutenant for each county on the advice of the Prime Minister, having consulted widely across the county. The office of Lord Lieutenant is unpaid and the age of retirement is 75. Lord Lieutenants are not political figures.
Duties and responsibilities
Mrs Susan Lousada was appointed as Lord Lieutenant for Bedfordshire in 2022 to be the King's personal representative in the county. Working together with a team of Deputy Lieutenants and as the King's representative, the Lord Lieutenant may undertake the following duties:
- responsible for the arrangements for all Royal visits in the county, attending each visit and escorting the Royal visitor during the visit
- preparing the guest list for Royal Garden Parties
- advising on matters concerning the Crown
- advising on submissions for Honours nominations
- presenting decorations such as OBEs, MBEs and BEMs
- presenting awards, such as the King's Awards for Enterprise and the King's Award for Voluntary Service
- Keeper of the Rolls and chair the Lord Chancellor's Advisory Committee for the appointment of magistrates
As Bedfordshire's Lord Lieutenant, Susan is committed to shining a light on Bedfordshire's charity and voluntary sector, education and wellbeing organisations as well as its vibrant arts and entertainment venues and groups. Susan enjoys visiting the many voluntary and charity organisations, schools and businesses around the county and supporting Bedfordshire's diverse communities.
The Lieutenancy serves as an information point for the national honours and awards system which recognises voluntary service, individuals and local businesses. The Lord-Lieutenant represents all of us and has a duty to always uphold the dignity of the crown.
You can find out more about the honours and award system, how to request a Royal visit or an engagement with the Lord Lieutenant or a Deputy Lieutenant by following the quick links below.