THE new Lord Lieutenant for Tweeddale says it is a “huge privilege” to take on the role.

Catherine Maxwell Stuart was appointed by King Charles earlier this month following the retirement of Sir Hew Strachan.

The position of Lord Lieutenant involves a host of duties, including arranging visits from the Royal family, recommending invitations to the Royal Garden Party and informing the monarch’s office on local issues.

Ms Maxwell Stuart was previously the Deputy Lieutenant to Sir Hew who held the position since 2014.

She said: “It is a huge privilege to have been given this appointment and I will do my utmost to fulfil my duties.

“I am incredibly fortunate to have worked as a Deputy Lieutenant with Sir Hew Strachan who has been a superb representative for the area.

“Having been born and grown up in Tweeddale I am passionately committed to the area, hope to be able to shine a light on the incredible work of the voluntary sector here and the many unsung heroes who make this such a strong and supportive community.”

Ms Maxwell Stuart is well known in the area for her involvement in business and charitable organisations and is an Honorary Fellow of Scottish Borders College.

She has held the title of the 21st Lady of Traquair since 1990, growing up and living in Traquair House.

Since 1999 she has managed the estate and successfully runs the house as a public attraction, venue, brewery and Traquair Charitable Trust.

Her husband, Mark Muller Stuart KC, is the founder of the popular Beyond Borders International Festival, which is hosted in the grounds each year.

A spokesperson for the Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s office said: “The King has been pleased to appoint Ms Catherine Maxwell Stuart DL as His Lord-Lieutenant for Tweeddale, to succeed Professor Sir Hew Strachan CVO FBA FRSE following his retirement on September 1, 2024.”