First female Black Rod takes up position in House of Lords after 650 years

The first female Black Rod in the 650-year history of the House of Lords took up her place on Tuesday. 

Sarah Clarke has formally taken over from her predecessor, David Leakey, having received her ceremonial staff from the Queen last week.

She is to be known as the Lady Usher of the Black Rod.

Peers cheered as Sarah Clarke appeared at the door of the chamber ready to assume her duties.

Ms Clarke was previously responsible for the organisation of the annual Wimbledon tournament as championships director at the All-England Lawn Tennis Club.

She has also held roles at four Olympic Games, as well as the London Marathon and UK Sport.

Black Rod is the senior official tasked with maintaining order at the House of Lords, and is appointed by the monarch on the recommendation of a selection panel chaired by the Lord Speaker.

Lord Speaker Lord Fowler, welcoming the appointment, said: "In this centenary year of the first enfranchisement of women, I'm so pleased that this most historic of roles has finally been taken up by a woman.

"I hope that her appointment will demonstrate to women everywhere that no job or position is beyond their reach."

Labour's leader in the Lords, Baroness Smith of Basildon said Ms Clarke had the skills, the understanding and personality to take on the role.

Ms Clarke quipped that her previous role in organising the Wimbledon tennis championships would be "very useful during any parliamentary ping-pong", when Bills bounce between both Houses of Parliament due to disagreement between peers and MPs.

Black Rod’s main duty falls each year during the State Opening of Parliament, when they are sent to bang on the door of the House of Commons to summon MPs to hear the Queen's Speech.

They also act as secretary to the Lord Great Chamberlain, with responsibility for major ceremonial events in the Palace of Westminster.

Speaking ahead of taking up the role, Ms Clarke said she was "both deeply honoured and delighted" to be offered the post.

"Over many years I have been fortunate to work at the heart of some of the world's most complex events and institutions," she said.

"To be given the opportunity to join such an experienced and dedicated team is a great privilege.

"The House of Lords is a place where the smallest detail is as important as the big picture and the depth of heritage and tradition is second to none. I am truly looking forward to starting work."