In conversation with the new High Sheriff of Somerset

Peter became High Sheriff of Somerset in March 2026. Born in Yorkshire and raised on a farm in Cambridgeshire, he later moved to Somerset in 1984 after qualifying as a chiropractor, settling in Bath.

In 1985, Peter founded Dixon Health, a chiropractic practice with locations in Bath and Frome in Somerset, as well as Bradford on Avon, Devizes, and Chippenham in Wiltshire.

Peter has played a significant role in the development and regulation of the chiropractic profession in the UK and beyond. He served as President of the British Chiropractic Association at the time when the Chiropractor’s Act was passed in 1994. He helped establish – and later chaired – The General Chiropractic Council, the regulatory body for chiropractors in the UK. In addition, he was instrumental in founding the Royal College of Chiropractors and served as President of the European Chiropractors’ Union, where he promoted professional regulation across Europe.

Alongside his professional work, Peter has been actively involved in the community and rehabilitation initiatives. He worked with HMP Earlstoke near Devizes, running a mentoring program for prisoners approaching release, helping them prepare for re-entry into employment. He also supported a similar program with Julian House in Bath, a charity assisting homeless men, many of whom had recently left prison. These experiences have given him a valuable insight into the criminal justice system and the challenges faced by individuals following custodial sentences.

Having grown up in a rural environment, Peter retains a strong understanding of the issues affecting farming and rural communities, which form a significant part of Somerset’s identity.

As High Sheriff, Peter intends to continue the focus of his predecessor, Janet, on supporting young people. In particular, he will focus on those experiencing difficulties in school, especially those at risk of exclusion. This includes both the support available within schools and the pathways available to young people and their families if exclusion occurs.

Somerset’s exclusion rates are higher than the national average. Approximately 1 in 16 secondary pupils experience exclusion, either temporary or permanent, and up to 30% are considered at risk of exclusion. These young people are significantly more vulnerable to involvement in crime, making early intervention and support critically important – not only for their own futures, but for the wellbeing of society as a whole.

Peter is also looking forward to travelling across Somerset, engaging with its diverse communities and landscapes and gaining a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing the county.