Derbyshire's new High Sheriff has been officially "pricked" into office by the Queen during an ancient ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

In November, Lord Ralph Kerr of Melbourne was nominated for the role in a ceremony at London's High Court.

This week the nomination was officially confirmed by the Queen as she used a silver bodkin to "prick" his name, which was on a parchment list of all new high sheriffs for England and Wales.

Lord Kerr will make a declaration in accordance with the 1887 Sheriffs Act early next month and then take office.

The unique ceremony carried out by the Queen at the Privy Council at Buckingham Palace dates back to the reign of Queen Victoria.

The office of high sheriff, which is now almost wholly ceremonial, stretches back much farther than Victorian times - sheriffs were once the chief county law officers and tax collectors.

The only significant legal functions left relate to the enforcement of High Court writs and entertaining visiting royalty and High Court judges.

Lord Kerr, 50, is the younger brother of Michael Ancram, the Conservative politician and 13th Marquess of Lothian.

He lives at Melbourne Hall with his wife, Marie-Claire, and their six children.

During his 12 months in office, he wants to support local charities including Treetops Hospice at Risley and Billy's Appeal, which provides accommodation for the families of children being treated for cancer at Nottingham's Queen's Medical Centre.

Lord Kerr replaces outgoing High Sheriff Roger Wardle.