KNUTSFORD'S outgoing mayor has thank residents for their support in helping in raising £7,500 for good causes in the town.
Cllr Peter Coan's term in office came to an end at last week's Mayor Making ceremony, where Cllr Colin Banks officially stepped into the role.
During the last 12 months, the former mayor organised a number of fundraising events to support Knutsford GROW and the establishment of a Knutsford Men in Sheds initiative.
Thanking his supporters, Cllr Coan added his congratulations to the new mayor and urged residents and businesses to get behind him during his upcoming term.
He said: "I would like to thank everyone who has supported me over the past 12 months.
"To each of the businesses who have sponsored or hosted my events, my fundraising efforts would not be possible without you.
"I would like to personally thank everyone who has attended my events, I hope you enjoyed yourselves whilst raising much needed funds for my two charities.
"I would like to congratulate Cllr Colin Banks on being elected as Knutsford’s new town mayor and I hope you will support him as much you have supported me throughout my term."
The £7,500 raised will be split between both causes.
Some of Cllr Coan's fundraising events included a summer BBQ, a beer tasting at Dexter & Jones, and a Dine with the Mayor event at Linden Stores, while guests discovered a winter wonderland at Tatton Park in November.
In December the former mayor ran a charity raffle stall at Knutsford Christmas Market with two lucky winners walking away with hampers kindly donated by traders at the Christmas market.
The mayor’s annual quiz night at The Angel was hailed a 'roaring' success, with many laughs and lots of money raised as Katy Collins and her team walked away with the winner’s trophy.
But the highlight of the calendar in each mayor's term is the Mayor's Charity Ball, which this year was held at Cottons Hotel and Spa.
Entertainment was sponsored by Mesoestetic, and drinks were sponsored by Georgina Chase from Slater and Gordon. Knutsford band 'The Avenue' got everyone up on the dancefloor, while DJ Pete Deane entertained the crowd with his set and ice breaker games.
Prizes for the raffle and auction were generously donated by businesses in the town.
Neil Forbes, trustee of Knutsford GROW, said: "I’d like to thank Cllr Coan and civic events officer Gemma Jackson on behalf of our trustees, volunteers and especially our beneficiaries for the year of hard work building up to this donation.
"It means a great deal to smaller charities like ‘GROW’ where every penny counts.
"For example, we intend buying some extra rechargeable batteries for our equipment. If you attended or hosted or contributed to any of the events, well done and our grateful thanks to you too."
Rachel Meadows, of the UK Men’s Shed Association, added: "Thank you to Peter and all those involved in supporting the progression of the Shed Movement in Knutsford for this generous donation.
"The UK Men’s Sheds Association believe there should be a Shed available for every person who wishes to access one and we are thrilled that Knutsford will soon have its own.
"The new Shed at Knutsford will be a valuable community space where people can socialise, share skills and support their mental health. We wish them every success in the future."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here