Council Chair and Vice Chair

The posts are non-political, with the holders carrying out duties on behalf of the council as a whole. Both posts are also ambassadorial. This means the Chair and Vice Chair 'fly the flag' for County Durham in neighbouring authorities and beyond.

The Chair

The Chair of the Council must be a serving county councillor but not a member of the Cabinet. Sadly, Cllr Beaty Bainbridge, Chair of the Council for 2022/23 recently passed away.  Her duties are being fulfilled by the Vice Chair of the Council until a new Chair is elected.

Chair's charity

Each year, the Chair also chooses the Chair's charity to support during their year of office.

Invitations to the Chair

The Chair welcomes invitations to attend events in the county. To invite the Chair to an event, please have a look at our inviting the Chairman to events page.

Chair's Medal

The Chair's Medal was introduced to recognise unsung heroes, community champions and those who have dedicated their lives to particular organisations or events.

Vice Chair

The Vice Chair of the council supports the Chair in carrying out ceremonial activities. Cllr Joan Nicholson is Vice-Chair for 2022/23.

Chains of office

The Chair and the Vice Chair have chains of office which they wear to official engagements.