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 Diane Howarth
My name is Diane Howarth.
I am honoured and delighted to have been elected Mayor of Peterlee for 2024/25.
During my term of office I would like to raise funds for the following Clubs that make outstanding contributions to improve the health and wellbeing of the Town’s children and young people whilst providing positive structures to help them develop teamwork, discipline and respect and leadership.
Peterlee Cricket Club (Juniors)
Peterlee & Horden RFC (Youth Teams)
Peterlee Town Football Club (Youth Teams)
Contact Details
Email: dijoycey@icloud.com
Phone: 0191 7160782
Elected Deputy Mayor of Peterlee - Councillor Ray Burnip
I am a local business owner who cares deeply about my community.
As a family man my main focus is to make a safer cleaner more prosperous community so future generations can enjoy this town
My door is always open to all and I’m here to make real change and make sure all voices are heard!
I love nothing more than helping people
I’ve been involved in politics and community projects all my life it seems I was chairman of Easington Parish Council ….Chairman of Easington Welfare….Chairman of Pride in Easington and involved in many groups such as Pathfinder, East Durham Trust, was part of the spear group that launched the drop in centre in Easington.
In short I am 100% committed to my role as Town Councillor and look forward to meeting and helping my community in all aspects!!
Contact Details
Email: burnipr@gmail.com
Phone: 0191 7160772
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.