Jessica has been sworn in as Guernsey’s first female bailiff and the island’s 91st holder of the office, succeeding Sir Richard McMahon, who had served since 2020. She became deputy bailiff in 2020 and received the King’s approval for the role in July.
Shelaine Green, chair of Women in Public Life, called the appointment historic, saying the new bailiff is the first woman to hold the post in 748 years and all 90 predecessors were men.
Green said seeing women in decision-making roles could inspire young people. Students from schools across Guernsey were invited to watch the ceremony.
