Biography: The Sheriff's Consort
Left to right, The Sword Bearer, Sheriff of York Mr Paul Doughty, the Sheriffs consort Mr David Smith, The Mace Bearer
Mr Paul Doughty is the current Sheriff of York; Mr David Smith is the Sheriff’s Consort for the civic year 2025 to 2026, and has prepared the following summary of his life and career to date.
Born in Sheffield but now a York local for over 20 years, I swapped steel city grit for cobblestone charm and never regretted it. A lifelong advocate for others, I spent my career championing causes close to the heart - housing, welfare rights, mental health, and hospice care - working tirelessly to support those in need.
Since retiring from full-time charity work, I haven’t slowed down. I volunteer as a Trustee for Hospice UK and chair the board at York’s own St Leonard’s Hospice, proving “retirement” just means more time to give back.
When I’m not in meetings, you’ll find me geeking out over sci-fi classics like Doctor Who and Star Trek (“Resistance is futile” I joke). A self-taught tech tinkerer, I’m equally at home building a PC as I am brainstorming hospice fundraising strategies.
As the Sheriff’s Consort, I will bring a trademark mix of compassion, curiosity, and quirky humour to the role.
"Community isn’t just about big gestures - it’s the small acts, the listening, and just the occasional joke.
Ready to support York with heart and a hint of holographic flair!
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