A CONSULTANT gynaecologist to the royal household has been appointed as the new Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset.

The Office of the Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset has announced the appointment of Michael Dooley LVO MMs FRCOG, succeeding Angus Campbell CVO, who recently retired after serving 10 years in the role.

Mr Dooley, of Broadmayne, commenced his new role earlier this month, taking on the responsibility of representing His Majesty the King, in the county.

As HM Lord-Lieutenant, Mr Dooley will be working closely with businesses, charitable organisations, and communities to promote civic, cultural, and social initiatives across the county.

He has a long history of experience in working with numerous charitable sectors and a wide knowledge of the county from his role as High Sheriff in Dorset.

Mr Dooley has had a long and distinguished medical career. He is consultant gynaecologist to the Royal Household, and practices in London and Dorset. He was lead gynaecologist at the London Olympics, and team doctor for the British Equestrian Federation for eight years.

He is a visiting Professor to Bournemouth University and since serving as High Sheriff four years ago, Mr Dooley has developed and led the initiative, Creating Health and Harmony in Dorset. As a trustee for Key4Life, which aims to reduce youth offending, the project’s next stage will focus on the county’s prison population.

He has raised considerable sums for charities and other good causes, including the Dorset County Hospital, a local hospice, and the Royal Osteoporosis Society. 

Speaking about his appointment, Mr Dooley expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity to serve as the Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset.

He said: "It is a great honour to serve as the King’s representative in Dorset and follow in the footsteps of Angus Campbell whose work has been inspirational and a huge benefit to the community.

“I am greatly looking forward to working with my lieutenancy team and continuing to work with local charities as well as meeting local people and celebrate their many contributions to the communities in Dorset.”

Mr Dooley lives with his wife Barbara.  They have three children and seven grandchildren.