A husband and wife team have become the first ever to hold the mayor and Deputy Mayor positions in Brightlingsea history.
Tony Chapman was elected by the town Freemen to the ceremonial post of Deputy Mayor of the Cinque Port Liberty during the annual Choosing Day service yesterday at All Saints’ Church.
His wife Jayne is currently town mayor as she is chairman of Brightlingsea Town Council, making them the first couple to hold the dual positions at the same time.
The Deputy Mayor is a centuries old position going back to the time of the Cinque Ports, including Sandwich in Kent. Brightlingsea was a “limb” of Sandwich, so the Mayor of Sandwich had a deputy in Brightlingsea.
Mr Chapman, 64, has lived in the town for more than 38 years and helps a number of organisations, including being a freeman and assistant to the deputy for five years.
He is also secretary of Guild of Freemen, Brightlingsea YMCA, treasurer to the town’s business association and a member of the local branch of the Royal Naval Association, as well as being part of the panto group for 20 years. He is also a volunteer driver for Family Support and the Co-operative Women’s Guild.
Mr Chapman said: “I try to get involved in the town, just little things you do can help the community.
“It is privilege to be in this position, to be representing Brightlingsea, a really good feeling.
“After the Choosing Day lunch a lot of people said to me ‘If you need any help’ which is great and that’s what Brightlingsea is all about.
“The community spirit is absolutely marvellous.”
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