A regional daily’s former managing editor has been chosen by the Queen as High Sheriff of his old patch.

Eamonn O’Neal, formerly of the Manchester Evening News, was formally announced by Buckingham Palace as the next High Sheriff of Greater Manchester yesterday and will take up his ceremonial role next month.

Eamonn, pictured, has been acting a Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester for six years.

The father-fo-three, who will hold office for 12 months, was managing editor and columnist at the MEN for eight years following a successful career in television and radio.

He still presents programmes on BBC Radio Manchester and is currently chief executive of St Ann’s Hospice, based in Stockport and Salford.

Said Eamonn: “It’s a huge honour and quite humbling to be chosen as High Sheriff of Greater Manchester.

“I’m grateful to have the chance to connect and engage with the charitable, voluntary, faith, ethnic, cultural and business communities across the county.”

The role Office of High Sheriff is the oldest secular title in British history, dating back more than 1,300 years.

At that time the Sheriff represented the monarch, collected taxes, raised armies and was the rule of law across the county.

Eamonn added: “I won’t be collecting taxes, or raising an army, but as High Sheriff I’ll be proud to represent the Queen as the ceremonial head of the judiciary in the county. I also regard this royal appointment as recognition of the importance of meaningful connection with local communities.

“The Manchester Evening News is a fine example of how quality journalism and storytelling can have a real impact on people’s lives. I’m very proud of having been part of the MEN team, both as an executive and a columnist.

“I would also pay tribute to my colleagues at St Ann’s Hospice for the way they look after the communities of Greater Manchester.

“St Ann’s is one of the oldest and largest hospices in the country and we’re about to celebrate our 50th anniversary. It’s a real privilege to lead such a wonderful organisation.”