Local church leader appointed Deputy Lieutenant

Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Lord Petre, has appointed Michael Chapman - a local church leader in Epping - as a Deputy Lieutenant for the County of Essex.

The role of a Deputy Lieutenant is to assist the Lord Lieutenant in his duty to uphold the dignity of the Crown, and of assisting the Territorial, Auxiliary and Volunteer Reserve and pre- service organisations. Deputy Lieutenants may also be asked to assist in the performance of any public duty which may be laid upon the Lord Lieutenant.

 

Michael Chapman has been a member of the congregation of All Saints church in Theydon Garnon, Epping, for more than 50 years. He plays an active part, sharing in the practical and spiritual development of the congregation. He is a member of the parochial church council, has served as secretary and churchwarden, and has been a member of the deanery and diocesan synods.

Michael is married to Janet and they have two children and three grandchildren. Throughout the summer Michael and Janet regularly open their garden as a place for quiet retreat, prayer and meditation as part of the Quiet Garden Trust.

For the past 25 years Michael has been Clerk to the Epping and Theydon Garnon Charities. The Charities are responsible for three almshouses in the area. They make grants to local schools and young people in further education and give financial assistance to the less well off members of the community. Michael became a Trustee of St Clare's Hospice in 2004 and Chairman of Trustees in 2006.