The mayor of Brentwood Cllr Olivia Francois has been a ward member of Hutton East for eight years and she has been re-elected for a second term as the mayor.

Tell us a bit about yourself:

I got married a week and a half ago.

I have been a radiographer for 18 years and have worked at Queens Hospital for 14 years. I specialise in minimally invasive X-Ray guided surgery and am the lead for the department.

How do you feel being selected for a second term as mayor of Brentwood?

It is a huge honour and privilege to have been re-elected as the mayor of Brentwood for a second term. I absolutely love the role and hope to make the very best of my second term in office with lots of fundraising for my chosen charities and attending lots of events.

What was your highlight of your duties as mayor last year?

The absolute highlight of my mayoral year was leading the Remembrance Day parade and laying a wreath for our fallen heroes. It was a day I will never forget.

Why did you choose to support Parkinson’s UK, Cardiomyopathy UK, Saint Francis Hospice and the Hopefield Animal Sanctuary for your mayoral fundraising this year?

Parkinson's UK: Both my grandfather and a fellow councillor who I was very close to passed away with this cruel disease. I wanted to do something to honour them.

Cardiomyopathy UK: A Brentwood family suffered the loss of a son from cardiomyopathy, he was only 21 years old back in 2001. They have actively campaigned for awareness and fundraised for cardiomyopathy ever since so I wanted to do something to help.

Hopefield Animal Sanctuary: I love animals and Hopefield does the most amazing work looking after abandoned and badly treated animals.

Saint Francis Hospice: We all know someone who has received care from this hospice. They do the most incredible work caring for patients and supporting their families.

What is your favourite place in Brentwood and why?

My favourite place in Brentwood is at home, with my family. We live on the outskirts of Hutton. I love the peace and quiet as well as living surrounded by countryside.

What motivates you as mayor?

As mayor, I hope to be able to inspire and help people across the borough.