FORMER first citizens of Peterlee turned out in force for a special mayoral presentation.

The past mayors each received a commemorative medal at the annual mayor-making.

After receiving the chain of office for the coming year, the new Mayor of Peterlee, Maureen Taylor-Gooby presented her predecessors with lapel badges.

Millie Whitehouse received a medal on behalf of her late husband Bill, who was mayor in 1974-75.

Next was Harry Bennett, one of the longest-serving members, and mayor in 1975-76, 1986-87 and 1995-96.

From 1976 to 1977, Ken Rowe was mayor. His wife Jackie was at the Shotton Hall ceremony to receive his medal.

One of the driving forces for the introduction of the office for the town, Bill Jeffrey, mayor in 1977-78 and 1987-88 wore his medal with particular pride. George Cowie, another former mayor and still a councillor, received his medal to mark his year of office in 1978-79.

With some mayors having died, and others unable to attend, the next former first citizen to receive the medal was Tommy Longstaff, 1984-85 and Marjorie Carr, 1985-86.

Also receiving medals were John Dickinson, 1988-89; Gordon Tennant 1991-92 and council leader Dennis Coates, 1993-94.