Nicholas Alexander, 7th Earl of Caledon, English politician, Lord Lieutenant of Armagh

Nicholas James Alexander, a figure of considerable standing in Northern Ireland, holds the distinguished hereditary title of the 7th Earl of Caledon. Born on 6 May 1955, his life of service is notably marked by his current pivotal role as the Lord Lieutenant of County Armagh, acting as the sovereign's representative in this historic region of the United Kingdom.

The Earl of Caledon: A Hereditary Title

The title of Earl of Caledon is a significant hereditary peerage within the Peerage of Ireland, tracing its origins back several centuries. Nicholas James Alexander inherited this esteemed position, becoming the 7th individual to hold the earldom. Such titles typically signify a long-standing family history and an ancestral connection to a particular region or estate, often conferring a degree of social and historical prominence. The Earldom is primarily associated with the Caledon Estate, a notable demesne located largely in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, giving the title a tangible geographical and cultural anchor.

The Role of Lord Lieutenant of County Armagh

As the Lord Lieutenant of County Armagh, Nicholas James Alexander undertakes a crucial civic and ceremonial duty. The Lord Lieutenant is the reigning monarch's personal representative in a given county or area within the United Kingdom. This esteemed non-political position involves a variety of responsibilities, including acting as host to members of the Royal Family during visits, presenting various national honours and awards to deserving citizens, and generally promoting the voluntary and public services within the county. It's a role that embodies community leadership and fosters a direct link between the local populace and the Crown, ensuring the monarch's presence is felt and represented at a local level.

County Armagh: The Orchard County

County Armagh, often affectionately known as 'The Orchard County' due to its lush apple orchards, is one of the six counties of Northern Ireland. Historically significant, it is also home to the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland, Armagh City, boasting two cathedrals. As Lord Lieutenant, the 7th Earl of Caledon’s responsibilities extend across this vibrant landscape, encompassing its communities, heritage, and ongoing development within the broader context of Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Biographical Details

Nicholas James Alexander was born on 6 May 1955. This date marks the beginning of a life that would see him eventually take on both a significant hereditary title and an important public service role within the United Kingdom, contributing to the civic life of Northern Ireland.

FAQs

Who is Nicholas James Alexander?

Nicholas James Alexander is the 7th Earl of Caledon and currently serves as the Lord Lieutenant of County Armagh in Northern Ireland, UK.

What is the significance of the "Earl of Caledon" title?

The Earl of Caledon is a hereditary peerage in the Peerage of Ireland, indicating a long-standing aristocratic lineage and historical connection, primarily to the Caledon Estate in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland.

What are the duties of a Lord Lieutenant?

A Lord Lieutenant is the personal representative of the monarch in a county. Their duties include hosting Royal Family visits, presenting national honours, promoting local voluntary and public services, and generally upholding the dignity of the Crown within their designated area.

Which area does he serve as Lord Lieutenant?

He serves as the Lord Lieutenant for County Armagh, a historic county located in Northern Ireland, UK.

When was Nicholas James Alexander born?

He was born on 6 May 1955.

Is there a specific location associated with the Caledon title?

Yes, the title of Earl of Caledon is historically linked to Caledon, a village and large estate primarily in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, distinct from the County Armagh where he serves as Lord Lieutenant.