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 Mary Cartwright
Hi, I’m Mary Cartwright—proud wife, mum to three wonderful grown-up daughters, and a very proud Nana!
I’ve had the honour of serving on Peterlee Town Council for 33 years and have been Mayor of Peterlee five times. Over the years, I’ve gained a wealth of experience, and I still feel there's so much more I can give back to our community—especially here in Eden Hill Ward and across Peterlee.
Alongside my role as your Town Councillor, I’ve also been a school governor for over 30 years, supporting three different schools. I care deeply about our town and its future, and I’m always here to listen, support, and help however I can.
Contact Details
Email: mary.cartwright@peterlee.gov.uk
Phone: (0191) 7160779
Elected Deputy Mayor of Peterlee - Councillor Bobby Fishwick
Hi, my name’s Bobby Fishwick—though most people just call me Bob. I’ve lived in Peterlee for most of my life, apart from a few years spent serving in the Army and later in the TA.
I didn’t get into local politics for political reasons. I became a councillor simply because I wanted to do some good and help the people of Dene House Ward with any issues they might be facing.
This is now my second term as your councillor, and I’m hopeful that together we can achieve even more than we did the first time around. I’m always here if you need a hand or just want to chat—I really look forward to hearing from you.
Contact Details
Email: bobby.fishwick@peterlee.gov.uk
Phone: (0191) 7160773
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.