Paul Gentleman, who is based in Swindon and currently serves as Deputy Head of External Communications at GWR, will support the Lord-Lieutenant in representing His Majesty The King across the county.
He was invited to take up the role by Dame Sarah Troughton, the Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire.
Speaking to Swindon24, he said:
“I have to say, I’m extremely honoured, extremely privileged and extremely humbled by the invitation.”
Deputy Lieutenants assist with official engagements and events, recognising the achievements of communities, organisations and individuals throughout Wiltshire.
Paul said:
“I’m really looking forward to taking part in the magnificent events that go on in Swindon and the surrounding area of Wiltshire, and representing not only Dame Sarah, but also His Majesty the King.”
He joined GWR in 2015 as Communications Manager and has since moved into his leadership role as Deputy Head of External Communications.
During his career, he has worked on major rail industry projects, including Department for Transport programmes and branding work linked to the former East Coast Main Line Company.
Paul has also been involved in events attended by senior members of the Royal Family, including initiatives connected to Queen Camilla’s visits to Wiltshire.
He revealed he played a central role in organising the “Poppies to Paddington” remembrance initiative, which saw wreaths transported by rail to London.
“That was my doing,” he said. “It was something that was born out of Covid when we were all asked to remember from home.
We were really privileged that Queen Camilla agreed to take part… it just goes to show the passion and the love that Her Majesty has for the county.”
He added that he has met Queen Camilla on several occasions, describing her as
“a really wonderful person and a really passionate supporter of Wiltshire and Swindon.”
Away from his professional duties, Paul is a supporter of Swindon’s independent business community and local economy.
“I’m a big, passionate believer in Swindon as a town, in what it’s got to offer, in its fantastic heritage,” he said.
“I’m an Old Town resident. I love Old Town… I’d like to see that vibe really spread out across the town.”
He also urged residents to back local firms during challenging economic conditions.
“It’s very important now… with the turmoil that’s going on with the economy… get out there and support your local economies,” he said.
Before joining GWR, Paul worked in branding and marketing on high-profile rail projects and national campaigns.
His work has also taken him to unexpected places. In 2019, he was part of a delegation that visited the White House, where he presented then US President Donald Trump with a model GWR train named in honour of 9/11 hero Rick Rescorla, following a long-standing connection with the hero’s family.
Despite the prestige of the new position, Paul said he is still learning what it will involve.
“But I’m really looking forward to serving the county… and obviously His Majesty the King,” he added.
Paul’s appointment is well earned. With a career built on public engagement and representing Great Western Railway, combined with his strong ties to Swindon, he brings the right experience and perspective to the role. This is someone who will, represent the town and wider Wiltshire for the Crown, and Swindon should wish him well.
