Locals object to High Sheriff Titchmarsh

Residents of the Isle of Wight have protested at the appointment of Alan Titchmarsh as High Sheriff.

The former Ground Force presenter was sworn in as an enforcer of the Queen's writ on the island yesterday.

His role is unpaid and mainly ceremonial, but the fact the TV star was born and raised in Illkley, Yorkshire has annoyed several locals.

Councillor Patrick Joyce told The Mirror: "There are many people who have done very great service and live here. I think it would be better to have chosen one of those."

Isle of Wight Council leader David Pugh defended the decision, saying: "His profile will help raise that of the Isle of Wight."

Titchmarsh turned down the position three years ago. Commenting on the appointment he said: "I changed my mind. First it was a great honour, second there was a great costume.

"But third I could put something back into an island that has given me and my family so much."