Thu, 12 Jul 2012
No5 Chambers is pleased to announce that Caroline Sumeray has been sworn in as Her Majesty's Coroner for the Isle of Wight.
The swearing in ceremony took place on 2nd July 2012 in the Isle of Wight Crown Court, and was conducted by High Sheriff Nick Hayward and His Honour Judge Ralls QC.
This is Caroline's fifth judicial appointment. She currently sits as an Assistant Deputy Coroner in the Outer London North, Inner London North and Cheshire Coronial jurisdictions, and previously in East London. Caroline will be officially sworn in as the new Coroner for the Isle of Wight at a ceremony on the 2nd July. As part of the ceremony, she will make the necessary declaration in front of the Isle of Wight High Sherriff and His Honour Judge Rawles.
Caroline takes over from the previous Coroner John Matthews who has retired after being in post on the Isle of Wight for 18 years.
Looking forward to starting work on the Island, Caroline said “I am thrilled and deeply honoured at the opportunity to take up the position of Coroner for the Isle of Wight.
“I am very much looking forward to establishing a long and successful working relationship with everyone at the Coroner’s Court. I have had the benefit of much assistance from John Matthews, the retiring Coroner, who has made me feel very welcome.”
Councillor David Williams sat on the panel which made the appointment as he was Chairman of the Council at the time. He said “The panel were very impressed by Caroline during the selection process and we are delighted she has accepted the offer to become the new Coroner for the Isle of Wight.
“This is a very important role and we look forward to Caroline starting work in July. I also want to thank John Matthews who is retiring. John is a very hard working and dedicated Coroner and I know he is leaving his role in good hands.”
Caroline holds a Diploma in Forensic Medical Sciences and whilst at Bar School she was awarded the Ver Heyden de Lancey prize in Forensic Medicine and Science.
As the appointment as HM Coroner to the Isle of Wight is a part-time one, Caroline will continue to be an active member of No5 Chambers, and will specialise in both Criminal and Coronial Law as well as maintaining her other Coronial appointments.
