Three new Deputy Lieutenants for Essex have been appointed by His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant, Mrs Jennifer Tolhurst.

The role of the Deputy Lieutenant is to assist the Lord-Lieutenant in her first and foremost duty, which is to uphold the dignity of the Crown and of assisting the Reserve Forces and Cadets Association and Pre-Service organisations.

Deputy Lieutenants help advise on nominations and honours, including the New Year's Honours, The King's Birthday Honours, and The King's Awards. There are between 50 and 70 Deputy Lieutenants in Essex at any one time.

Tollesbury woman, Tessa Bartlett DL, has recently taken on the role.

Tessa has lived and worked in Essex for many years and has been closely involved in the region's educational, environmental, and maritime communities. She served in senior roles at the University of Essex, where she led a number of regional engagement and outreach initiatives. 

A passionate advocate for youth development, Tessa has volunteered for over three decades as a sailing coach, supporting young people through on-the-water activities along the Essex coastline. She sits on the organising committee for the East Anglian Maritime Awards, recognising the achievements of young people in the sector, and helps raise funds to support bursaries for maritime training.

Tessa is a school governor and a trustee of several organisations working with young people and the environment. She also races a traditional Essex fishing smack on the Blackwater. 

Her appointment is alongside Mr Mark Bevan CVO DL of High Roding and Mrs Rachel Grainger DL of Willingale.

Deputy Lieutenants retire at the age of 75, although keep the title as former holders of public office.