Jersey’s 90th Bailiff has officially completed his final week in office – marked by the unveiling of his official portrait last night.

Sir Timothy Le Cocq, who was sworn in as Bailiff on in October 2019, steps down after six years as the Island’s chief justice and presiding officer of the States Assembly.

He will hand over to Deputy Bailiff Robert MacRae, who is due to be sworn in as Bailiff next Friday.

Reflecting on his time in office, Sir Timothy spoke fondly of Jersey’s heritage, its connection to the Crown and its enduring Norman roots.

“We are a strange place, and I use that in a positive sense, aren’t we? We have this massive connection with the Crown, and I think you only had to be there during the Royal visit, to see how warmly they were received by Islanders,” he said.

Sir Timothy’s final week included “day-job” commitments in court and the unveiling of a portrait in the presence of House of Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle, followed by two dinners – one for court staff and the judiciary, and another for States Members and government figures.

“There used to be one large dinner, but it was pointed out that if you do two dinners, they could be hosted in the Old Library [within the Royal Court building] and thereby save quite a lot of money, which was a sensible thing for the public purse, rather than hiring an outside venue,” he said.

Sir Timothy said he took great pride in maintaining Jersey’s links with Westminster and the British Crown, while also recognising the Island’s unique character.

Looking ahead to retirement, the outgoing Bailiff, a self-confessed “medievalist” with a fondness for swords and history, also shared plans for a quieter life – including travel, walking, reading… and riding.

“One thing I would quite like to do before I’m too feeble is to sit on a horse again,” Sir Timothy, who previously used to ride regularly, said with a smile.

After a career spanning decades in law and public service, Sir Timothy will continue to sit occasionally as a commissioner of the court and on the Court of Appeal.

His official portrait will now hang in the Royal Court building alongside those of his predecessors – a lasting tribute to his years of service to Jersey.

READ MORE…

Sir Timothy was previously a Connect cover star – read his full interview in which he reflects ont he highlights of his time below…