DORSET’S new High Sheriff says she is proud to be working on a fund that champions the healing power of nature.

Sibyl Fine King took up the office in April and has already been busy meeting people and attending events as the official representative of the Royal Family and the legal community in the county.

She said she is especially excited about The Nature Heals Fund, which is being run by the Dorset Community Foundation, is offering grants to grass roots groups and charities who use the benefits of the natural world to benefit communities.

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Ms King said: “I’ve known Dorset Community Foundation for a while and always wanted to work with them.

“They work with grass roots organisations and they know a lot of people so they have got the right reach and personality.”

Promoting the healing power of the natural world is one of her goals during her shrieval year. She said she is also looking forward to getting out and learning even more about the county she has called home since 1985.

She grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and came to the UK while studying for her Master’s degree in health and fitness management.

“As soon as I got to know the area I felt a strong connection with the people and the place,” she said.

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As High Sheriff she is working to bring nature and healing groups together.

She said: “I believe in the healing power of nature through my own personal experience and through seeing some of the incredible projects which are happening around Dorset.

“I have good relationships with nature organisations but not so much with healing organisations so the idea was to encourage new partnerships that would be good for both.”

Dorset Community Foundation director Grant Robson said: “I think Sibyl is going to be a wonderful High Sheriff and will bring huge enthusiasm and interest to the role.

“I am delighted she has put her trust in us to run her fund and it’s very pleasing that she recognises the knowledge and reach we can give to donors and how easy we make it for them to give.”