The role of councillors, employees, and how decisions are made

At the annual meeting of the Council, in May of each year, the Council appoints a Mayor to preside over its meetings for the new municipal year.

The Mayor is the "first citizen" of the Borough and spends a very busy year attending functions and events and meeting local groups and individuals.

At South Tyneside Council the office of Mayor is purely ceremonial and it does not carry with it any decision making powers.