She is only the third woman to take the position in the county of her birth since it was created more than 1,000 years ago.

She is due to be formally invested in the post on Wednesday evening by the Queen's representative in the county, Lord-Lieutenant Sarah Goad, in a ceremony at County Hall, in Kingston-upon-Thames.

The post of high sheriff, historically one of the most powerful positions in local government, is predated only by the monarchy itself.

'Volunteers'

Ms Keith, famous for her work in TV sitcoms The Good Life and To The Manor Born, said she was "honoured" to have been chosen for office.

"I hope that I can help to focus attention on some of the marvellous work that is being done in the county, particularly by volunteers," she said.

She said she saw her as an appointment as an opportunity to make a contribution to the Surrey community.

The role of high sheriff is now largely ceremonial, though Ms Keith will retain a statutory duty to collect debts and enforce writs on behalf of the courts.