A WOMAN from Williton who has become the High Sheriff of Somerset will focus on helping disadvantaged youngsters during her year-long tenure.

Sylvana Chandler, 68, of Aller Farm on the Wyndham Estate, was sworn in at a ceremony at Wells Cathedral attended by high sheriffs, mayors and other dignitaries.

Married to Richard Chandler, with four adult children, she has been a strong supporter of various charities including the NSPCC and the Red Cross.

Mrs Chandler said: “It is a huge honour and a huge responsibility and now I just want to get it right.

“The thing I find most worrying about this area is the number of disadvantaged young people, so we are going to support Somerset Crimebeat as much as we can.

“I very much hope we can raise the profile of West Somerset and the groups and charities based here.”

Mrs Chandler will be organising a concert featuring Lesley Garrett on September 22, a garden party at Orchard Wyndham in the summer and other events to raise money for Somerset Crimebeat, which aims to give youngsters under 25 an opportunity to help combat crime in their community.