Dr Arnab Basu MBE has been installed as the High Sheriff of County Durham for the 2026/7 shrieval year.
The Indian-born academic, business leader, and one-time would-be cricketer was bowled over by his selection for the now largely ceremonial role, representing his adopted county, taking over from estate agent Mike Poole.
Dr Basu’s appointment follows decades of civic and community contributions in the county and across the North East, in sport, economic development, innovation, health and culture.
It was recognised with the award of an MBE in 2014 for services to regional development and international trade.
He has served as a Deputy Lieutenant of County Durham since 2020 and is a patron of the St Margaret’s Centre, in Crossgate, Durham, an activity and training hub for adults in the county requiring support with their mental wellbeing.
The co-founder and now CEO of Sedgefield-based engineering company Kromek is also an Honorary Fellow of the Institute of Physics, Fellow of the Institute of Directors and Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.
Following his installation ceremony, presided over by Judge Nathan Adams, at Durham Crown Court, he becomes the latest incumbent of the oldest secular role in the county, under the Crown.
Sheriffs once served as the monarch’s chief representatives, responsible for maintaining law and order, collecting taxes and overseeing local justice.
Although their responsibilities have evolved over centuries, today’s High Sheriffs continue to play an important civic role supporting the judiciary, celebrating voluntary service, and strengthening community engagement.
Dr Basu, 53, was born in Kolkata, but has lived in County Durham for about 30 years.
Having earned his PhD in Physics from Durham University and an undergraduate degree in engineering from Northumbria University, he continues to live in the county with his wife Beatrijs and sons, Timon and Emile, all of whom attended Friday's (March 27) crown court swearing-in ceremony.
His priorities for the shrieval year ahead are employability, mental health and opportunities for young people from disadvantaged communities, as well as the important role of sport and culture.
He will work closely with Point North, a foundation supporting people across County Durham, the Tees Valley and the wider North East.
It will include celebrating the success of local young people at the annual High Sheriff Youth Awards in February 2027.
Speaking after the installation ceremony, Dr Basu said: “I am deeply honoured to be appointed High Sheriff of County Durham.
"Having lived and worked here for three decades, the county has shaped both my personal and professional life, and it is a privilege to serve a community that means so much to me.
“Becoming High Sheriff of Durham is a moment of great pride for my family and me.
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"It reflects the openness and diversity of this remarkable county, and I hope it inspires others from all backgrounds to contribute to public life.
“I look forward to supporting the judiciary, and recognising the outstanding work of volunteers and organisations across our communities, and championing the spirit and resilience that define County Durham.”
Helen Dexter, of Barnard Castle law firm Tilley Bailey and Irvine, remains in the role of Under-Sheriff for the coming year.
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