THE managing director of a Swindon brewery will become the next High Sheriff of Wiltshire at a ceremony in the town tomorrow.

The declaration and appointment of the new High Sheriff, James Arkell, will take place at Swindon Crown Court.

Mr Arkell will be responsible for undertaking a number of ceremonial duties during his year in office.

He takes over from the out-going High Sheriff, David Newbigging.

Mr Arkell has worked for his family's firm, Arkell's Brewery, since he was appointed the tied trade director in 1974.

Two years ago he became managing director and vice-chairman of the firm.

During the past three decades he has also had an extensive career in the Army.

He joined The Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry in 1972 as a trooper, was commissioned into the Royal Yeomanry Regiment in 1976 and assumed command of the regiment in 1993.

He is at present a Deputy Lieutenant of Wiltshire and last year became chairman of Swindon Cares a group of companies that get together to raise money for charities.

The 53-year-old soldier and businessman has four children and lives with his wife near Highworth.

Among the guests attending the ceremony will be Wiltshire's Lord Lieutenant, Sir Maurice Johnston; the Mayor and Mayoress of Swindon Derek and Pamela Benfield; the chairman of the County Council Jerry Willmott; and Wiltshire's Chief Constable, Dame Elizabeth Neville.

His Honour Judge John McNaught will be presiding.

Both the Lord Lieutenant and the High Sheriff are appointed by the Queen.