On February 10th, 1989 Tony Robinson made history as the first Black Sheriff of Nottingham, a title steeped in legend and linked to one of England’s most famous folklore figures, Robin Hood. Born in Jamaica, Robinson moved to England in 1960 and spent 25 years as a bus driver in Nottingham before embarking on a career in local politics. His journey from public transport to public office was a testament to resilience, dedication, and a commitment to serving his community.
From Bus Driver to Historic Public Servant
After retiring from Nottingham City Transport in 1986, Robinson transitioned into politics, becoming a councillor for Bestwood Park Ward from 1987 to 2000. During his tenure, he was actively involved in several committees, including Leisure Services, Planning, Community Development, Transportation, and the Disabilities Joint Sub-Committee. His leadership and dedication led to his appointment as Sheriff of Nottingham in 1989, a ceremonial position that had historically been an enforcer of the law but had evolved into a role focused on tourism and civic duties.
Robinson was not only the first Black person to hold the title but also the first man to serve as sheriff three times—1989/90, 1993/94, and 1997/98. During his time as sheriff, he embraced the role with dignity, using it to promote Nottingham internationally, engaging in tourism efforts, and visiting countries like Germany, the United States, and Canada to attract more visitors to the city.
Embracing Nottingham’s Robin Hood Legacy
The legend of Robin Hood and his battles with the Sheriff of Nottingham remains a central aspect of the city’s identity. While the historical sheriffs were often seen as antagonists, Robinson viewed the story differently. He admired Robin Hood’s mission to help the poor and saw him as an early champion of social justice. “He was a socialist because he always thought about the poor people, and he used to rob the rich for the poor,” Robinson once said.
Unlike his folklore predecessors, Robinson’s responsibilities as sheriff were ceremonial. His duties included attending official events, visiting care homes, engaging with schoolchildren, and honouring long-married couples with floral tributes. He also played a crucial role in Nottingham’s tourism, helping to keep the city’s rich medieval history alive while modernising its public image.
Overcoming Racism and Advocating for Change
When Robinson arrived in Nottingham in 1960, he encountered significant racial discrimination. Housing, employment, and everyday life were difficult for Black immigrants, and Nottingham was considered one of the most challenging places for minorities. He personally faced discrimination when a neighbour built a wall between their houses to separate from a Black family.
Despite these hardships, Robinson persevered, carving out a respected place in local governance. His role as sheriff, adorned with the traditional gold chain and robes, symbolised progress in a city once marred by racial divisions. “Discrimination won’t die out completely, but we’ve come a long way,” he reflected on the changes he had seen in his lifetime.
First Black Female Sheriff of Nottingham
Since Robinson, several Black individuals have held the position of Sheriff of Nottingham, marking continued progress in representation like Merlita Bryan another Jamaican who made history as the first Black female Sheriff of Nottingham in 2012-2013 and later became the Lord Mayor of Nottingham in 2013-2014.
Born in Saint Thomas, Jamaica, she moved to England in 1962 at the age of 11 to join her parents in Nottingham. She was re-elected as Sheriff of Nottingham for 2021-2022, representing the city once more. Additionally, Veronica Pickering, of Kenyan heritage, became Nottinghamshire’s first Black female High Sheriff, further highlighting the increasing diversity in these ceremonial roles.
A Lasting Legacy
Beyond politics, Robinson left a cultural mark by playing the Sheriff of Nottingham in the British TV series Maid Marian and Her Merry Men. His decision to portray the sheriff was a playful nod to his real-life title and an effort to embrace the character’s historical significance.
Tony Robinson passed away in 2002, but his legacy remains deeply embedded in Nottingham’s history. His journey from a Jamaican bus driver to a trailblazing public official is a story of perseverance, leadership, and the power of representation.
Robinson’s pioneering journey paved the way for future generations, showing that barriers can be broken, and history can be reshaped for a more inclusive future.
