King Charles has appointed Neelam Devesher as the new Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey, succeeding Michael More-Molyneux following his retirement in September 2026.
A highly respected public and voluntary sector leader, Neelam brings extensive experience in community engagement, inclusion and public service. Her work has focused on strengthening community cohesion, expanding opportunity and supporting those facing disadvantage.
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to be appointed as His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey,” said Neelam. “It is both a privilege and a great responsibility to serve the county in this role.
“I would also like to thank Michael More-Molyneux for his outstanding service. He has served Surrey with great distinction, and I look forward to building on his legacy.”
Neelam currently serves as Chair of the Community Foundation for Surrey, Chair of the Surrey Minority Ethnic Forum and Chair of the Surrey Police Hate Crime Scrutiny Panel, where she has championed fairness, accountability and inclusion.
She is passionate about promoting equality of opportunity and believes strong communities are built on shared values, trust and active civic participation.
Neelam lives in Oxshott and has two children and four grandchildren.
What is the Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey?
The Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey is His Majesty The King’s personal representative in the county, responsible for upholding the dignity of the Crown, arranging Royal visits, and recognizing local community and business achievement. The current Lord-Lieutenant is Michael More-Molyneux CVO, with Neelam Dharni Devesher appointed to take over in September 2026. Find out more at The Surrey Lieutenancy.
Surrey Day 2026
The eighth annual celebration of our wonderful county, Surrey Day 2026 brings communities together across towns, villages and attractions to celebrate everything that makes Surrey such a special place to live, work and visit. Led by partners Visit Surrey, Surrey's official tourist board, BBC Radio Surrey and The Surrey Lieutenancy, Surrey Day showcase is our county’s rich heritage, vibrant culture and inspiring people.
