Former Mayor of Knutsford, Bryan Hartley, concluded his mayoral year by presenting cheques totalling £2,240 each to his chosen charities, East Cheshire Hospice and Knutsford in Bloom. He thanked residents, businesses and volunteers for their generous support throughout the year.
Councillor Hartley said: “Every contribution, large or small, has made a real difference and reflects the incredible community spirit that makes Knutsford so special. It has been an honour to support two organisations that do such valuable work within our community.”
Among the highlights of the year was the mayor’s sold-out bingo night at Knutsford Market Hall, along with the ever-popular Mayor’s Quiz Night, where Tatton Velo were crowned champions. Cllr Hartley also thanked The Angel at King Street for their hospitality.
The year concluded with the Mayor’s Charity Ball at Cottons Hotel and Spa, where guests, sponsors and local businesses helped raise further funds through donations and prize contributions. Funds raised during the year will go directly to support the valuable work carried out by East Cheshire Hospice and Knutsford in Bloom.
Barry Tilby, from Knutsford in Bloom, said: “We would like to thank Cllr Hartley not only for choosing us as a beneficiary during his term of office, but also for the support and encouragement he has given us over the past 12 months. His enthusiasm is infectious, and we look forward to continuing to work alongside him in the coming year.”
Claire Gorton, from East Cheshire Hospice, said: “We’re so grateful to Cllr Bryan Hartley for selecting East Cheshire Hospice as one of his chosen charities for his mayoral year. The efforts of him and the officers at Knutsford Town Council have helped to raise over £2,000. This is a fantastic achievement that will make a big difference. The hospice receives only around 21% of running costs from the government, meaning that £9,362 must be raised daily to be able to run our vital services. Support from our community is so important, we are immensely proud of the Knutsford community for their generosity.”
