Icons of England
  • Introduction
  • The Icons
  • Nominations
  • News
  • Learn & Play
  • Your Comments

Robin Hood

Interview: Jeannie Packer, Sheriff of Nottingham

Councillor Jeannie Packer has been Sheriff of Nottingham since May 2006 and is one of only a handful of women to be given the ceremonial post. ICONS asked her a few questions about holding such an historic title.

Councillor Packer
Councillor Packer
© courtesy Nottingham City Council
Could you briefly describe your role?


Promoting tourism, greeting visitors to Nottingham and keeping the legend of Robin Hood and the Sheriff alive.  Attending civic receptions, visiting elderly people's homes and attending lots of church services!


How does it feel to hold such an iconic title?


I feel very honoured and priviledged to hold the title of Sheriff of Nottingham - a title that goes back 1,000 years. In all that time there have only ever been five female sheriffs.


What's been your proudest moment as Sheriff of Nottingham so far?


My proudest moment so far was being interviewed by Jonathan Ross at the Sheriff's Lodge at Nottingham Castle.  The programme will be going out on BBC1 in August 2006. The interview was about the new Robin Hood series being made. [The much anticipated BBC drama, starring Jonas Armstrong and Keith Allen, will be hitting our TV screens in Autumn 2006. Written by Dominic Minghella, it aims to bring Robin Hood to a new generation.]


Are people surprised that a role still exists, and that you are female?


Yes, the Americans are especially surprised that the role of Sheriff exists. Lots of people are also surprised to receive a female sheriff.


Where is your favourite place to visit in Nottingham?


Trent Embankment, near Trent Bridge. [An urban park area near the river Trent, currently undergoing regeneration.]


Do you think Robin Hood is a relevant icon today?


Yes, especially for Nottingham. Robin Hood is known throughout the world. My husband, who comes to a lot of the Sheriff's engagements as the Sheriff's Consort, always wears his Robin Hood badge and wherever we go people know we are from Nottingham because of the badge.