Richard Nichols (solicitor) facts for kids

Sir Richard Everard Nichols (born April 26, 1938 – died March 13, 2016) was an English lawyer, also known as a solicitor. He held a very important job as the 670th Lord Mayor of London. This role is like being the main leader of the historic part of London, called the City of London.

Early Life and Education

Richard Nichols was born in a town called Watford, in Hertfordshire, England. His father, Guy Everard Nichols, worked for a very old group called the Salters' Company. This company is one of London's ancient trade groups, originally for people who dealt with salt.

Sadly, Richard's father passed away when Richard was only seven years old. The Salters' Company helped Richard get a good education. He went to Christ's Hospital School in Horsham, Sussex. After school, from 1956 to 1958, he served in the Royal Engineers, which is a part of the British Army that helps with building and engineering tasks.

Career as a Solicitor

After his time in the army, Richard Nichols became a solicitor. A solicitor is a type of lawyer who gives legal advice and helps people with legal documents. He joined a law firm in Watford. By 1976, he became a senior partner there. This means he was one of the main leaders and owners of the law firm.

Richard also became a member of the Salters' Company, just like his father. He later became the Master of the company from 1988 to 1999. Being the Master is like being the head or president of the company for a period of time.

Public Service in London

The Salters' Company encouraged Richard to get involved in the government of the City of London.

• In 1983, he became a Common Councilman. This is like being a local council member who helps make decisions for the City of London.
• In 1984, he became an Alderman. Aldermen are senior members of the City of London's government.

Sheriff of London

Richard Nichols was chosen to be a Sheriff of London for the year 1994 to 1995. The Sheriffs are very old and important roles in the City of London, helping with legal and ceremonial duties.

Lord Mayor of London

One of the highest honors for Richard Nichols was being elected as the Lord Mayor of London. He served in this role from 1997 to 1998. The Lord Mayor is a very important leader who represents the City of London both in the UK and around the world. They promote business and traditions.

After his time as Lord Mayor, Richard Nichols was knighted on November 4, 1998. This means he was given the title "Sir" by the Queen for his services.

Later Life and Family

From 2002 to 2010, Sir Richard Nichols served as the Chancellor of the University of Ulster. The Chancellor is usually the ceremonial head of a university.

Sir Richard was married to Shelagh Loveband. They had two sons and one daughter. Around 1990, he and some others bought a large farm of about 300 acres (which is about 120 football fields) in Kings Langley, Hertfordshire. His family lived there.