A Mayoral fundraising year has ended in a £5,000 boost to Walsall Healthcare’s Well Wishers charity.
Councillor Chris Towe, along with daughter Louisa Hughes as Mayoress, worked closely with the charity during their term which finished in May, and they recently handed over the proceeds.
Well Wishers was one of the Mayor’s chosen charities and he and the Mayoress supported a number of events to help raise funds – with Councillor Towe earning the nickname the Singing Mayor after he performed at last year’s Christmas lights switch-on.
Georgie Westley, Fundraising manager at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, said: “I was invited to the Mayor’s Parlour to accept a cheque on behalf of the charity, as our share of funds raised during his term.
“It was an absolute pleasure to work with Councillor Chris Towe and Louisa and we are grateful for all their support. From a fashion show to a football match, he and Louisa have both worked so hard to raise funds for their chosen charities and we are delighted to have received a cheque for £5,000 which will make such a difference within the Trust.
“Well Wishers had worked with Councillor Towe previously and he has been a supporter of the charity for some time. He has performed in singing duo Sounds Familiar on many occasions at the Manor Hospital, entertaining patients, visitors and staff.”
The Mayor’s other chosen charities were Acorns Hospice, Walsall Community Network and the Walsall arm of Santa’s Black Country Toy Appeal.
Councillor Towe said: “During my year as Mayor, I met hundreds of people, businesses and community organisations and had 55 visits to the Mayor’s Parlour.
“I think people really enjoy visiting the parlour, and I have really appreciated the respect both elderly and young people give to the office of the Mayor. The 12 months have flown by, it’s been absolutely brilliant, and I would like to thank you all for supporting me. “
The borough’s Mayor for 2024/25 is Councillor Anthony Harris, with wife Christina as Mayoress, and he has also made Well Wishers one of his chosen charities.