The Town Council elects a Chairman in May every year at the Annual General Meeting. The Chairman can be a man or a woman, but the title of ‘Chairman’ remains the same (it’s a peculiarity of UK law!). The Chairman of the Town Council is able to take the title of Town Mayor, and may serve as Town Mayor for as long as they are the Chairman of the Council.
The Town Mayor acts as the figurehead of the Council and represents the town at public events throughout the area. In addition to representing the town, the Mayor also raises money for local charities during their year of office.
Elected Mayor of Peterlee – Councillor Audrey Laing
Mayor – Councillor Audrey Laing

Photo of the Mayor of Peterlee Councillor Audrey Laing
My name is Audrey Laing. I have served District, Town & Unitary Councils for some 30 years. I have a proven record of my involvement with the electorate, as most of you may know. It is my intention to carry out my role Mayor and as a member of the Town Council for the Denehouse Ward to the standard I am well known for.
To contact me please use either the e mail or telephone number below:-
e mail: audrey.laing1947@icloud.com
phone: 0191 7160775
Elected Deputy Mayor of Peterlee – Councillor Diane Howarth
Picture of Councillors Audrey Laing and Diane Howarth appointed as Mayor and Deputy Mayor at the Annual Meeting in May 2023
Deputy Mayor – Councillor Diane Howarth
Please view Councillor Howarth’s details below:
Telephone: (0191) 7160782
Email: dijoycey@icloud.com
At the Annual General Meeting in May each year the Council also elects a Vice Chairman. The Vice Chairman of the Council is able to take the title of Deputy Mayor. The Deputy Mayor supports the Mayor in his or her role and may represent the Town Council at events if the Mayor is unavailable.