The Chair and Vice-Chair represent the Council at local community events and outside functions and are civic roles. Both are appointed for a year at the Annual Meeting of the Council in May.
If you would like to invite the Chair of the Council to attend a local event, for example to open a fete, make a speech or as a guest, please contact the Chair's Secretary. Once they have confirmed availability you will need to complete a Chair's form.
Chair for 2025-2026
Our current Chair is Councillor Mike Crane.
Since 2014, Mike has lived in South Godstone with his partner, Nina who will be his Consort. He has represented the Godstone Ward since 2021. He has been a member of the Strategy & Resources, Audit & Scrutiny and Licensing Committees. He is also Chairman of the South Godstone Residents Association.
Born in 1950 in Farnborough, Mike moved to Sandhurst, Berkshire after getting married where he and his wife had two daughters. Mike’s wife died of breast cancer in 2006.
Mike started work in the timber trade. In the 1980s he obtained a degree in computer science and wrote computer programmes and developed systems for the timber industry. In the 1990’s Mike joined the privatised rail industry and held senior roles at a range of train operators until he retired in 2016.
Mike is looking forward to supporting the wide variety of events and engagements he will attend as Chair of the Council.
The Chair’s chosen charities for the year are:
Olive Tree Cancer Support Group: Provides support to cancer patients, their carers and families including information, emotional support and complementary therapies.
Warren Clark Golfing Dreams: Provides golf related activities to disabled and disadvantaged individuals and groups.
Please complete the Chair's form if you would like to invite the Chair to an event.
Leader of the Council
The Leader of the Council is Councillor Catherine Sayer, who represents the Oxted North Ward. The Leader is the political and elected head and chief ambassador of the Council. The role is given to the leader of the biggest political group on the Council.