Brentwood Liberal Democrats welcome election of new Mayor

Brentwood Borough Council has elected Councillor Jay Laplain as the Mayor of Brentwood for 2025/26.

Councillor Jay Laplain replaces Councillor Mark Haigh, who previously held the role. Councillor Laplain’s appointment was made at Annual Council on Wednesday (14 May). Both men represent Warley on the Council.

Councillor Laplain was born and raised in East London and began his long-standing association with Brentwood after joining BT, where he has worked for over 26 years. He and his wife moved to Brentwood in 2006 and have been active members of the community ever since.

An avid walker, Councillor Laplain and his wife have completed over 1,000 miles of walking in Essex, including the full length of the Essex Way during the summer of 2014. He has represented the Warley Ward as a Councillor since 2019 and was re-elected in 2024.

Following his appointment, the new Mayor of Brentwood, Councillor Jay Laplain, said: “I’m honoured to take on the role of Mayor and proud to serve the borough my family and I have called home for nearly 20 years. Brentwood is a place with a strong sense of community, and I’m looking forward to working closely with residents and local groups to support the work that matters to people. This role is a chance to give back to a town that has given us so much, and I’ll do my best to represent Brentwood with honesty, commitment and care. I’ll also be supported throughout my tenure by my wife, Vanessa Laplain, who will serve as Mayoress.”

Councillor Laplain has chosen two local charities for his Mayoral fundraising initiatives this year: The Recoil Trampoline Club and Wilderness Foundation UK.

Councillor Laplain added: “Both of these charities do outstanding work in our borough. Recoil Trampoline Club offers a safe, inclusive and active space for young people of all abilities to build confidence and have fun. Wilderness Foundation UK uses nature-based programmes to help people of all ages improve their mental wellbeing and develop resilience. I'm proud to support organisations that give so much to our community in such different and valuable ways. Their selfless dedication is truly inspiring and supporting them was an easy decision.”

Councillor Nicky Cuthbert, who represents Shenfield, has been announced as the new Deputy Mayor of Brentwood.

We wish Jay and Vanessa every success in their Mayoral Year.