The Mayor

About The Mayor

Councillor Peter Hebden is the Mayor of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council for the municipal year 2021-22.

Peter has three daughters and two young grandsons. He has lived in Hatfield with his wife for 25 years.

Before recently retiring, Peter served in the Metropolitan Police for 32 years.  During that time, as a Detective Sergeant, he managed a team investigating domestic violence, race and other hate crime. He also led a team in the intelligence unit of the anti-corruption command.

After retiring Peter proudly worked for the NHS in London and the East of England for six years and is passionate about its success.

Peter was elected to represent Hatfield East ward in May 2018, and as a County Councillor in May 2021. He is honoured to serve the residents of Welwyn Hatfield as the Mayor of the Borough.

The Mayor's role

The role has both a symbolic and practical importance:

• they are the borough's first citizen and represents Welwyn Hatfield at engagements during the year
• signs legal documents
• chairs full council meetings
• recognised representative of the council on all civic and ceremonial occasions.

Within the borough the Mayor takes precedence over everyone apart from a member of the Royal Family or the Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire.

The Mayor should be non-political and must be seen to represent every section of the community regardless of political persuasion. 

The role of the Mayor is to reflect the aims and strategies of the council. During most engagements the Mayor will wear the Chain and Badge of Office.