Local Government Act 1993

The mayor and deputy mayor are to be elected for a period of 4 years and hold office from the date of issue of the certificate of election in respect of an ordinary election for that office until the date of issue of the next certificate of election in respect of an ordinary election for that office.

If the office of mayor becomes vacant for any reason, the deputy mayor is to act in that office – until the certificate of election for the by-election for that vacancy is issued; or if the vacancy is within 6 months before the notice of the election is to be given, until the certificate of election for that election is issued.

If the office of deputy mayor becomes vacant for any reason, the councillors are to elect one of their number to the office of deputy mayor in the prescribed manner for the balance of the term.

If the deputy mayor is acting as mayor or is temporarily absent for any period, the councillors may appoint one of their number to act as deputy mayor during that period.