Some roles carry the responsibility of centuries. Few carry quite as much history as that of High Sheriff.
Having taken office on April 9, 2026, Oliver (Oli) Paul DL, is now serving as High Sheriff of Suffolk, stepping into the oldest secular office in the country, a role that has existed probably since 669AD
For Oliver, the significance of that history is something to respect, not something to be overwhelmed by. A shrieval year may represent only a brief moment in the long timeline of the office, yet it offers a valuable opportunity to make small but meaningful differences across the county.
Deeply rooted in Suffolk life, Oliver brings with him a long-standing commitment to community, collaboration and the local economy. For more than two decades he has been based on the Shotley Peninsula, where his family farming roots run deep and where he helped establish the Suffolk Food Hall, now widely recognised as a showcase for local produce, independent business and the power of working together.
As the sixth member of his family to serve as High Sheriff, Oliver is acutely aware of the privilege of the role and the responsibility that comes with it. During his year he hopes to use the office’s unique convening power to highlight an issue that touches every part of society: food.
From strengthening local food networks and promoting healthier, more affordable eating, to recognising those improving the food system and supporting initiatives such as hospitality training for ex-offenders, Oliver believes food can be a powerful force for connection, dignity and change.
With a background spanning environmental science, business consultancy and farming, and with a clear belief in the value of bringing people together, Oliver approaches his shrieval year with both humility and purpose.
Oliver is leading Suffolk Day 2026, which will be celebrated on Sunday June 21 in Bury St Edmunds. Designed as a vibrant and inclusive celebration of the county, the day will bring together Suffolk’s food, heritage, music and community across Angel Hill and the Abbey Gardens, culminating in a special evening performance at St Edmundsbury Cathedral. With proceeds supporting the High Sheriff’s Fund with the Suffolk Community Foundation, the event aims not only to celebrate the very best of Suffolk, but also to create a meaningful charitable legacy for those in need across our county.
Here, Oliver talks to Gina Long about Suffolk, service, charity, community and why sometimes the most meaningful change begins simply by bringing people together around a table.
What does Suffolk mean to you, both personally and professionally?
Suffolk is home in every sense. It’s where my family’s roots are, where I’ve built my working life, and where I feel most connected. Professionally, it’s given me the opportunity to work in farming and food: local industries that are completely shaped by Suffolk. Personally, it’s about belonging: landscape, community, continuity across generations.
You have recently taken office as High Sheriff of Suffolk. For those who may not fully understand the role, how would you describe it and what it represents today?
It’s an ancient role, but very relevant today. At its heart, it’s about supporting the justice system; our courts, emergency and probation services, and more; and championing the voluntary organisations that work so hard to keep our community strong. It’s partly ceremonial, but more importantly, it’s about connection, encouragement, and shining a light on people doing remarkable work, often quietly.
This is clearly a very significant moment for you and your family… how does that history shape how you approach the role?
It gives me a strong sense of responsibility. Knowing that previous generations have served Suffolk in this way, makes me very aware that I’m a tiny part of something bigger. It’s not about legacy for its own sake, but about continuity of the shrieval service and doing it in a way that’s relevant and meaningful today.
You have spoken about defining a personal purpose for your shrieval year. Why was that important to you?
I think any role like this, benefits from clarity of purpose. The year goes quickly but there is a unique platform, so it felt important to focus on something that genuinely matters, where I could contribute in a practical way. It helps guide decisions about where to spend time and energy.
Food will be a central theme… what inspired that focus?
Food is something that connects all of us. It brings together cultures, health, opportunity for individuals and business, the environment and, most importantly, a way to convene our community. In Suffolk we have an extraordinary food story, with highs and lows. I see food as a vehicle for change, a way of bringing people together to share, starting conversations and solving problems, and celebrating what the county does so well.
What makes Suffolk’s food community so special?
It’s the sense of collaboration and pride in quality. You have farmers, fishermen, producers, retailers, and chefs who are deeply connected to the land and to each other. There’s a willingness to work together and support one another, which creates something much stronger than the sum of its parts. Other parts of our community can adopt the same principles.
What have you learned about the power of collaboration through your work with Suffolk Food Hall?
We’ve seen that collaboration creates resilience and opportunity. When people work together - sharing ideas, supporting each other, and thinking collectively - you build something far more sustainable. It also creates a sense of shared purpose, which is incredibly powerful in a county like Suffolk.
What are you most looking forward to seeing and learning during the year ahead?
I’m really looking forward to meeting people across the county; particularly those working behind the scenes in our community, in charities, and our public services. There’s always more to learn, and I expect it will be both inspiring and humbling.
How has your scientific background shaped your thinking?
It’s given me a respect for evidence and long-term thinking. I did a masters in environmental geochemistry which is all about understanding systems; soil, water, the climate … and how they interact. That perspective feeds directly into how I think about people, business, farming and food. We’re all part of a much bigger, interconnected picture.
Where do you see Suffolk’s community spirit most strongly today?
Often in the quieter, less visible places. Local volunteers, community groups, people supporting neighbours. It’s not always headline-grabbing, but it’s the lifeblood of Suffolk. That everyday generosity is what keeps our community strong.
Who or what has influenced you most in shaping your approach to community and public service?
My family has been a big influence, particularly through example rather than instruction. Growing up around village life and local involvement, you see the importance of contributing and being part of something wider. That stays with you.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Have a plan but don’t be afraid to take opportunities that may not seem obvious at the time. Things tend to connect in ways you don’t always expect.
How do you like to relax and switch off?
Bodging around on the farm, normally planting, fixing, or up-cycling something. Also, there’s undeniable hours of fun to be had on our rivers and coast. Both are great ways to reset and keep perspective.”
What would we typically find in your fridge?
Often, it’s a motley collection of seasonal food and items from the Food Hall, along with stuff from the garden. Simple ingredients that can need an ‘invention test’!
If you had to describe yourself in just three words?
Grounded. Curious. Practical.
Your favourite tipple?
Ghost ship, on a Monday evening in the Butt ‘n’ Oyster.
Is there a guiding principle you live by?
Try to leave things better than you found them; whether that’s land, business, or community.
What do you return to for inspiration or perspective?
The Suffolk landscape itself. It has a way of putting things into perspective - its scale, its history, its continuity.
Where should a first-time visitor go to understand Suffolk?
I’d suggest a combination. The coast, a market town, arts venues and the countryside in between. It’s that variety, and how it all connects, that really defines Suffolk.
What does it mean to recognise those who quietly make a difference?
It’s hugely important. So much of what holds Suffolk together is often a modesty and unassuming approach. We just get on and get stuff done. However, in order to perpetuate good things, saying ‘thank you’ and acknowledging that contribution makes a great difference.
What are you most hoping to learn personally during your year?
I’d like to deepen my understanding of the Suffolk ecosystem; challenges people face across the county, particularly those who feel less connected or supported.
What change or contribution would you most hope to make?
If I can help bring people together, across sectors and generations, and from different parts of our community, and highlight the importance of connection, particularly through food and community, I’d feel the year had real value. I want to listen as much as possible and maybe solve a few small problems. I’d also hope to encourage others to get involved, in whatever way they can, in public service and community life.
Suffolk Day 2026 … what can people expect?
Suffolk Day is a wonderful celebration of everything the county represents. Its people, culture, food, and heritage.
Taking place on Sunday June 21, in Bury St Edmunds, everyone can expect a real sense of pride and community, with events throughout the day and a special evening performance at the cathedral. It’s an opportunity for everyone to come together and celebrate Suffolk at its best. I’d encourage those interested to look online for details and book early for the evening. It will be a very special occasion.
burystedmundsandbeyond.co.uk/suffolk-day
instagram @ginageelong
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