The Duchess of Northumberland has been awarded the DCVO by His Majesty The King in recognition of her distinguished personal service as the former Lord-Lieutenant of Northumberland.  

  

As the monarch’s representative for over 15 years, Her Grace carried out valuable work to thank and shine a spotlight on thousands of the county’s inspirational volunteers and welfare organisations who work tirelessly to help others. She also welcomed many members of the Royal Family to Northumberland to show them our wonderful county and communities.  

  

The Dame Commander of the Royal Victorian Order was established in 1896 by Queen Victoria. It recognises distinguished personal service to the monarch, members of the royal family, or to any viceroy or senior representative of the monarch.  

  

The new Lord-Lieutenant for Northumberland, Dr Caroline Pryer, said:  
  

"I am utterly delighted for The Duchess, our former Lord-Lieutenant of Northumberland, for her sustained, substantial contribution to our County, both locally, nationally and internationally.  This honour is a true reflection of the highest regard His Majesty has for Her Grace.  This is such a well-deserved award and we are so very proud of her."  

  

Her Grace, The Duchess of Northumberland added: 

  

“I am absolutely thrilled to have been awarded this honour by His Majesty The King.  During the past 15 years when I served as Northumberland’s first female Lord-Lieutenant it was a huge privilege to welcome many members of the Royal Family to our wonderful County and to introduce them to individuals and communities who had worked tirelessly for the benefit of others.   

  

“I made the hard decision to step down as Lord-Lieutenant earlier this year because I had an opportunity to develop Lilidorei internationally and I simply didn’t have the time needed to commit to the job.  I remain actively involved in Northumberland life, its charities and our communities and this will continue as a priority.”