MEET the men taking up the mantle of deputy lieutenants for Oxfordshire.

Sir Tony Baldry, Colonel (retired) Neil Sutherland OBE and Richard Venables have all been chosen by Tim Stevenson, the Lord-Lieutenant, to help him represent the Queen in the county.

They will help to encourage and support work in the county, particularly volunteering events and activities.

Having been member of parliament for Banbury for 32 years, Sir Tony, who lives in Bloxham, said he saw the honour as an opportunity to continue his public service.

The 65-year-old said: “It is still trying to do what one can to help and support the community, so I am looking forward to getting involved in any public duties as deputy lieutenant.

“Although I know Banbury extremely well, I am looking forward to getting to know other parts of the county as well.”

Sir Tony, who was awarded his knighthood in 2012, also chairs the Church Buildings Council, which looks after the care and maintenance of 16,000 parish churches in England, and is the High Steward of Banbury.

He added: “I think there are a huge number of people in Oxfordshire doing a huge amount of volunteering and I think for them, having a system whereby it is possible for there to be public approbation is important. It shows that what they are doing is valued.”

After serving with the Regular Army and the Reserves for 37 years, Neil Sutherland is now a committee member for the South East Reserve Forced and Cadets Association; chairman of Project Inspire; is involved with Fernham Village Trust; and a fellow of St Birinus.

The 63-year-old, who lives in Fernham, said he was delighted with the title but thought his CV did not match those of his fellow deputy lieutenants.

He said: “It is a big honour and I’m particularly looking forward to working with younger people and of course supporting the armed forces.”

Richard Venables, who lives in Islip, is a chartered surveyor and said he was “honoured”.

The 48-year-old said: “It’s all about giving something back and I’m really looking forward to getting stuck in. I feel very honoured to be given this opportunity.”

Mr Venables’ CV stretches past his own business as he is a coach for Oxfordshire Hockey, sits on Islip Parish Council, is a trustee of Islip Village Hall and joint chairman of the Oxford City Council Economic Steering Group.

The trio were appointed for the contributions they have already made to the county.

Mr Stevenson said: “I am delighted to announce these new appointments to the existing group of dedicated Deputy Lieutenants. Oxfordshire will benefit greatly.”