Braintree District Council elects chairman and vice-chairman

Following the council’s annual general meeting, the authority’s new chairman and vice-chairman have been elected for 2024 to 2025.

Bocking Blackwater councillor Lyn Walters, who has been a councillor for 13 years since 2011, has been named chairman for the second time, following her previous stint in 2015.

The role of chairman is separate from the leader of the council. 

Positive - Councillor Lyn Walters (Image: Braintree District Council)

As part of her duties, Ms Walters will represent the council at official events, meet residents, community groups, businesses and promote the authority’s aims and values.

The council leader's role is to take responsibility for council policy and business.

Ms Walters said: “Thank you for this prestigious opportunity to be doing this again.

“It is a great privilege for me, and I am very thankful.”

Instead of selecting a chosen charity, the chairman will decide at the end of her term who should be the recipient of any fundraising from her meet and greets throughout the year.

Braintree Central and Beckers Green ward councillor Justin Wrench has been elected as vice-chairman.

Proud - Councillor Justin Wrench (Image: Braintree District Council)

Mr Wrench said: “I am delighted and honoured to have been chosen as vice-chairman for the year ahead.

“I look forward to supporting Councillor Walters and the opportunities the year ahead brings.”

Ms Walters succeeds Diana Garrod, who attended 85 engagements in the community with a focus on health.

During her time as chairman, she hosted multiple events, with proceeds going to her chosen charity, the Salvation Army.

Ms Garrod said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to hold this position for the past year and to meet so many wonderful people within the community.

“There have been many highlights and I am proud of the support that organisations within the district are providing to those in need.”

Any organisations, community groups or businesses that would like to invite the chairman to attend an event should visit braintree.gov.uk/invitethechairman.