The Deputy High Bailiff has become the first woman to be appointed as High Bailiff.

Jayne Hughes was officially sworn in to the post on International Women’s Day at a special ceremony held at Government House in Onchan.

This was attended by Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney, Mrs Hughes’s colleagues, friends, family and the First Deemster Andrew Corlett.

Mrs Hughes has replaced John Needham who was appointed Second Deemster in November last year.

At the ceremony, she said: ’I have tried to think of how to express my feelings at my appointment as High Bailiff.

’In 2011 on my appointment as Deputy High Bailiff I used the words "honoured", "delighted" and "humbled".

’I would simply like to repeat those sentiments today, perhaps adding "relieved"- how many times have I written the word "Deputy" in the last seven and a half years?’

Both the High Bailiff and Deputy High Bailiff are ex officio judicial officers from the High Court of Justice in the Isle of Man and Coroners of Inquests.

Originally there were four High Bailiffs appointed when the role was created in 1777.

’This reduced to just one with William Lay being appointed as the very first sole High Bailiff in the island.

’Although undoubtedly all different in their approach to the role, prior to my appointment all of the High Bailiffs had one thing in common. They were all men.

’It is perhaps appropriate that I have been sworn in as the first woman to hold the office on this International Women’s Day,’ Mrs Hughes said.

Ceremony

She added that she was ’very conscious of following in the footsteps of giants’, including Mr Needham and Michael Moyle, who attended the ceremony.

’I can only hope and strive to be as successful in the office and not be remembered only as the first woman appointed but also as a good, effective, efficient, fair and innovative High Bailiff. I will do my best,’ she said.

Mrs Hughes, who had acted as Deputy High Bailiff since 2011, admitted that she will face a number of challenges in her new position as High Bailiff.

One challenge she cited was working with an entirely new team in summary court.

Not only will there be a new High Bailiff, and a new deputy, but also a new legal adviser to the magistrates.

Legislative changes will also come into force that will affect the summary courts and sentencing powers of the High Bailiff.

Another challenge she highlighted is the introduction of the government digital strategy, which aims to modernise the court processes.

Mrs Hughes said: ’I welcome the changes to move Isle of Man Courts of Justice into the 21st century but I do so with a note of caution.

’Should a group of middle aged - well OK old - people who still remember when you had to get up to change channels or turn off the TV, who are able to recall their granny’s telephone number even though she has been dead for over 20 years, the best to plan a digital future?’

Before thanking those for their support, Mrs Hughes added: ’If I have any advice to give to those looking to begin a career in law, male or female, it is that it was never too late to start.

’I was 32 when I stated my law degree and 39 when I qualified as a solicitor. At all times remember and to be thankful to those who have helped you on your way. Don’t be afraid to take a leap of faith and grab opportunities with both hands when they arise.’