Michael Dooley: Dorset’s Lord-Lieutenant speaks to Love It Local Magazine
Article published in Love It Local Magazine December 2026.
Championing harmony and community spirit
As His Majesty’s personal representative in every county of the United Kingdom, the Lord-Lieutenant’s role is one of honour, connection and celebration. The position which is voluntary and unpaid, upholds the dignity of the Crown while recognising the achievements of local people and communities. It is a historic and non-political office that dates back to the reign of Henry VIII. Originally created for military purposes, it is now focused on service, unity and civic pride.
Here in Dorset, the Lord-Lieutenant is Michael Dooley LVO FRCOG Hon.DSc, supported by the Vice Lord-Lieutenant, the Hon. Mrs Charlotte Townsend, and a team of dedicated Deputy Lieutenants who help ensure every part of the county is represented.
Alongside his ceremonial duties, Michael serves as a consultant gynaecologist and is Pro Chancellor as well as Visiting Professor at Bournemouth University, where he was recently awarded an Honorary Doctorate. His professional career has been guided by compassion, curiosity and care; qualities that also define his public service.
“We are so fortunate to live in a county with such beauty and variety.
Born in Wimbledon, Michael moved to Dorset in 1988 and now lives in Broadmayne with his wife, Barbara. The couple have been married for more than forty years and have three children and eight grandchildren. They love walking the Dorset landscape with their labrador, Nellie.
“Being out in nature is essential for me,” he says. “We are so fortunate to live in a county with such beauty and variety. The coast, the countryside and the forests all offer something different. Every walk reveals something new.”
Michael’s connection to Dorset extends far beyond his love of its landscape. Over the years, and particularly during his time as High Sheriff in 2021/22, he has raised thousands of pounds for Dorset County Hospital and other local causes through sponsored walks and community initiatives. His drive to give back, he explains, comes from the values instilled in him by his parents.
“My father was a wonderful influence; a doctor too, so it’s very much in the genes,” he smiles. “He always encouraged me to think differently and be curious. Even at the age of ninety-six he was asking if I had tried the game of tiddlywinks! My mother was equally remarkable, working with offenders and prisoners. I am so grateful for that strong upbringing. It really shaped who I am and prepared me for this chapter of my life.”
Those early lessons in empathy and perspective continue to inspire Michael’s approach as Lord-Lieutenant. He is passionate about the strength of communities, the contribution of the armed forces, the importance of faith, tackling homelessness and domestic violence, celebrating culture, and protecting the environment. “I like to support initiatives that highlight the creativity, resilience and responsibility Dorset people show in caring for our shared future and for each other,” he says.
“Dorset is full of people quietly doing extraordinary things"
Michael’s diary is filled with engagements that showcase the life of the county, from remembrance services, carol concerts and Armed Forces Day to business awards, community celebrations and charity fundraisers. He also has the privilege of presenting King’s Awards for Enterprise, King’s Awards for Voluntary Service and British Empire Medals, recognising individuals and organisations who make exceptional contributions.
“It is one of the greatest joys of the role,” he says. “Dorset is full of people quietly doing extraordinary things — volunteers, carers, entrepreneurs, artists and community leaders. Meeting them, hearing their stories and shining a light on their work is a real honour.”
Because Dorset is such a large and diverse county, Michael works closely with the Vice Lord-Lieutenant and a team of Deputy Lieutenants to ensure that the Lieutenancy remains visible and supportive across the region. “It’s important that we represent the full geography of Dorset,” he explains. “From our bustling towns and coastal communities to the rural heartlands, every area has its own energy and character. We are lucky to have such a rich mix of people, businesses and causes, and it’s something we should all be proud of.”
Supporting King Charles’s passion for the wellbeing of people and the planet
At the heart of everything Michael does is a simple principle: to follow the example of His Majesty The King and the Royal Family by promoting unity, goodwill and cooperation. “It’s about encouraging kindness and celebrating good work,” he says. “Whether through voluntary service, charitable projects or local enterprise, Dorset thrives because of people’s generosity of spirit. The Royal Family take a great interest in the social and cultural life of the country, and I hope to reflect that same commitment here.”
Now firmly established in his role over a year into it, Michael continues to bring people together to help Dorset move forward in a collaborative and inclusive way, particularly under the theme of Harmony, which supports King Charles’s passion for the wellbeing of people and the planet.
“It is a true privilege to serve as Dorset’s Lord-Lieutenant,” he says. “I am enjoying getting to know even more of the remarkable people and organisations that make this such a special place to live. Our office is based at County Hall in Dorchester, and we are always happy to hear from anyone who wants to learn more about what we do.”
He smiles and adds, “At the end of the day, this role is all about connection — celebrating what makes Dorset unique and helping to bring people together. I am constantly inspired by the kindness, creativity and commitment I see across the county. Dorset really is a place full of heart.”
Find out more about the role of the Lord Lieutenant
To see Michael’s latest activities visit: The Dorset Lieutenancy website or, follow on Instagram @dorsetlieutenancy and search for ‘Dorset Lieutenancy’ on Facebook.
