First woman appointed as His Majesty's Greffier

The King has approved the appointment of the first woman to hold the office of His Majesty's Greffier in the Royal Court of Guernsey.

In her new role, Antonia Read will be the clerk of the Royal and Magistrate's Courts, registrar of the Guernsey Court of Appeal and clerk and registrar of the States of Deliberation and States of Election. 

She will also be registrar-general of births, deaths and marriages in the island.

Mrs Read is to succeed Jon Torode, who retired in March after 14 years in the post and take up her appointment on 28 April.

The first recorded reference to the role of HM Greffier dates from the early 13th century.

Mrs Read was born in Guernsey and educated at The Ladies' College. On leaving school she joined Guernsey Police, where she progressed through the ranks.

As an inspector, she was appointed director of the Financial Intelligence Service.

Towards the end of her police career, Mrs Read was appointed as a member of Law Enforcement's Senior Leadership Team.

Mrs Read retired in the rank of detective chief inspector, going on to be part of the office of The Children's Convenor.

Discussing her appointment, she said: "It is an immense honour and privilege to continue serving the people of the Bailiwick through my appointment as His Majesty's Greffier.

"I look forward to the challenges ahead and to building upon the work of my predecessors in this unique and historic role."

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