The Justice Service for the County of Bedfordshire
Sunday 20 September 2026, 3.00pm at St Paul’s Church Bedford
Hosted by The High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, Mr Ismail Anilmis DL
The annual Justice Service for the County of Bedfordshire was held on Sunday 20 September 2026, bringing together representatives from across the judiciary, emergency services, legal profession, probation service, civic leadership, voluntary sector and wider public services to celebrate and recognise their contribution to justice, public safety and community wellbeing.
The Service reflects a tradition linked to the Office of High Sheriff, the oldest secular office under the Crown, with origins extending back more than 1,000 years. Today, while largely ceremonial, the Office continues to support and champion the judiciary, law enforcement agencies and organisations working to uphold the rule of law and strengthen communities.
In his address, The High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, Mr Ismail Anilmis DL, welcomed guests from across the county and reflected on the enduring significance of the role.
“While the history of this office is remarkable, the true importance of this service is the opportunity it gives us to recognise and thank those who serve our communities today,” he said.
Drawing on experiences from his year in office, Mr Anilmis paid tribute to the dedication of police officers, firefighters, paramedics, members of the judiciary, legal professionals, probation staff and volunteers. He highlighted the commitment, compassion and professionalism demonstrated daily, often under significant pressure and without public recognition.
He emphasised that justice is not delivered by institutions alone but through the collective efforts of individuals and organisations working together to support safer, stronger communities. The Service, he said, provided an important moment to pause and acknowledge those who devote themselves to public service.
The High Sheriff also extended thanks to the clergy, musicians, stewards and volunteers who helped organise the event and welcomed The Rt Revd Dr Andrew Rumsey the newly appointed Bishop of St Albans Diocese to his first Justice Service in Bedfordshire. In addition, he paid tribute to The Rt Revd Richard Atkinson, thanking him for fourteen years of leadership, friendship and service to the county as he approaches the conclusion of his episcopal ministry.
In his sermon, Bishop Richard Atkinson reflected on the words of the Prophet Isaiah and the responsibility shared across society to pursue justice, peace and human flourishing. He spoke of the need to challenge exploitation and oppression in all their forms and addressed contemporary issues, including the opportunities and risks presented by artificial intelligence and digital technologies.
The Bishop encouraged those present to ensure that advances in technology remain guided by human values and dignity, asking whether society’s vision of human flourishing will shape technology or be shaped by it. He called on individuals, institutions and communities alike to build strong foundations for future generations through justice, responsibility and care for others.
The Service concluded with a renewed expression of gratitude for all those whose work contributes to the administration of justice, the protection of the public and the wellbeing of communities throughout Bedfordshire.
High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, Mr Ismail Anilmis DL greeting people after the Justice Service on 20th Sep’26 at St Pau'l’s Bedford
High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, Mr Ismail Anilmis DL greeting people after the Justice Service on 20th Sep’26 at St Pau'l’s Bedford
High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, Mr Ismail Anilmis DL greeting people after the Justice Service on 20th Sep’26 at St Pau'l’s Bedford