Mary Prior, English politician, Lord Lieutenant of Bristol

Alice Mary Prior, born on 22 April 1942, has dedicated a significant part of her life to public service, community leadership, and various civic engagements within the vibrant city of Bristol and its surrounding region. Her distinguished career spans roles in the private sector, high-profile public appointments, and extensive charitable contributions, underscoring a deep commitment to the welfare and development of her community.

Leadership in Public Service: Lord Lieutenant of Bristol

From 2007 to 2017, Alice Mary Prior held the esteemed position of Lord Lieutenant of Bristol. This pivotal role saw her act as His Majesty the King's personal representative in the city, carrying out a wide array of ceremonial duties, supporting voluntary organisations, and fostering local pride and community spirit. During her decade-long tenure, she was a visible and active figure, presiding over royal visits, presenting awards on behalf of the monarch, and embodying the very best of civic leadership. This period marked a significant chapter in her commitment to upholding the traditions and future prosperity of Bristol.

Academic and Environmental Contributions

Even after her distinguished service as Lord Lieutenant, Ms. Prior continues to contribute significantly to the educational landscape and environmental initiatives. She currently serves as the Pro-chancellor of the University of Bristol, a role that involves supporting the Chancellor and the wider university in its mission of academic excellence and community engagement. Furthermore, her commitment to sustainability is evident through her trusteeship with Viridor Credits, an environmental fund dedicated to supporting community and environmental projects across the UK. This role highlights her dedication to fostering a greener future and directly benefiting local communities through impactful environmental stewardship.

A Career in Business and Philanthropy

Prior to her extensive public service, Alice Mary Prior forged a successful career in the corporate world. Until her retirement in 1997, she held the demanding position of Sales and Marketing Director at Alexandra, a prominent company renowned for its workwear and uniform solutions. This senior role provided her with invaluable experience in strategic leadership and commercial development, skills she would later bring to her public and charitable endeavours. Her philanthropic spirit is equally notable, as she serves as patron or president for a number of charities based in the Bristol area, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to supporting various causes close to her heart and enhancing the lives of those within the community.

Recognition and Continued Civic Engagement

Alice Mary Prior's profound impact on the region has been widely acknowledged. The University of the West of England (UWE) bestowed upon her an honorary degree in recognition of her exceptional contributions. Specifically, this honour celebrated her "outstanding contribution to local public service," her valuable "advisory support to the Bristol Business School," and her instrumental "support for and links with significant stakeholders of the University of the West of England." This accolade underscores her multi-faceted influence across public administration, education, and regional development.

Beyond her ceremonial duties, her commitment to justice and civic life continued to flourish. Following her appointment as Lord-Lieutenant, she also took on the crucial role of Chair of the Commission for Bristol and Avon Magistrates. This position involves overseeing the recruitment, training, and welfare of magistrates, ensuring the smooth functioning of local justice. Since 2008, Ms. Prior has also been a respected member of The Society of Merchant Venturers, a historic and influential organisation in Bristol that has played a significant role in the city's trade, education, and charitable activities for centuries, further solidifying her deep connections to Bristol's heritage and future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the role of a Lord Lieutenant?
The Lord Lieutenant is the monarch's personal representative in a county or city, performing ceremonial duties, promoting local pride, and supporting community initiatives. They are typically responsible for receiving members of the Royal Family, presenting national honours, and liaising with local armed forces and emergency services.
What does a Pro-chancellor of a university do?
A Pro-chancellor supports the Chancellor, who is usually the ceremonial head of the university. Their duties often include deputising for the Chancellor at official events, representing the university, and playing a role in its governance and strategic development.
What is Viridor Credits?
Viridor Credits is an environmental fund that distributes money to community and environmental projects across the UK. It is funded by landfill tax and supports a wide range of initiatives, from biodiversity projects to community facilities, aimed at improving local environments and quality of life.
What is The Society of Merchant Venturers?
The Society of Merchant Venturers is a historic institution in Bristol, dating back to the 16th century. Historically involved in trade and exploration, today it plays a significant role in Bristol's civic, educational, and charitable life, supporting schools, almshouses, and various local causes.
What was Alice Mary Prior's professional background before her public service roles?
Prior to her extensive public service, Alice Mary Prior had a successful career in business, serving as the Sales and Marketing Director of Alexandra, a major company specialising in workwear and uniforms, until her retirement in 1997.
Why was she awarded an honorary degree by the University of the West of England (UWE)?
UWE awarded her an honorary degree in recognition of her outstanding contributions to local public service, her advisory support to the Bristol Business School, and her efforts in building strong relationships with significant stakeholders of the university.