TWO new Deputy Lieutenants have been appointed to assist and support the Lord-Lieutenant in Somerset.

Brigadier Nigel Beacom, from Wedmore, and Justin Sargent, from Ashwick, are the latest appointments in the county, bringing the number of Deputy Lieutenants in Somerset to 34.

Welcoming their appointments, which have been sanctioned by His Majesty The King, Somerset’s Lord-Lieutenant, Mohammed Saddiq, said: “Nigel and Justin bring wide and varied experience to the Lieutenancy in Somerset.

“They will do a great deal to encourage, support and celebrate the lives and achievements of people and voluntary organisations in our county – and that is what the Lieutenancy is about.”

Nigel Beacom, Somerset Deputy Lieutenant, with Lord Lieutenant Mohammed Saddiq

Brigadier Beacom said: “I feel honoured and privileged to be appointed a Deputy Lieutenant. I am looking forward to doing what I can to support our communities in Somerset.”

Mr Sargent added: “It’s a great honour and it’s humbling. I am looking forward to working as part of the Lieutenancy to raise the profile of local charities and philanthropy in our county.”

Deputy Lieutenants come from all walks of life. Their appointments often recognise distinguished service to the community, predominantly in a voluntary capacity.

Brigadier Beacom is a retired military officer who dedicated 36 years of service to the Territorial Army, now known as the Army Reserve.

In recognition of his contributions to the Reserves, Nigel became the first Army recipient of the Queen’s Volunteer Reserves’ Medal (formerly known as the QVRM, now KVRM) in November 1999.

He also had the honour of serving as an ADC (Aide-de-Camp) to the Queen from 2009 until his retirement in 2012.

Justin Sargent, Somerset Deputy Lieutenant, with Lord Lieutenant Mohammed Saddiq

Justin has been CEO of Somerset Community Foundation since 2005, driving its growth and development as the leading vehicle for philanthropy in Somerset, and largest independent funder of local charities, community groups and social enterprises.

Each year the foundation, which is based at the Bath and West Showground near Shepton Mallet, provides funding to hundreds of groups and organisations throughout the county.

He was awarded an OBE in 2020 for services to the community of Somerset.

Justin grew up in Kingsholm, Gloucester, and, having stood in The Shed with his grandfather, father and brother from an early age, says he has Cherry and White in his veins. He is, however, also a keen supporter of Somerset County Cricket Club.