BISHOP Auckland’s outgoing mayor has thanked members of the public and businesses for supporting his charity campaign.

Cllr Adam Zair raised more than £5,000 for his chosen charity, the Great North Air Ambulance Service, during his time in office.

At a meeting of Bishop Auckland Town Council on Tuesday he presented a cheque to a representative of the service and handed over to his successor, Cllr David Fleming.

Cllr Zair said: “I’m overjoyed by the support I’ve got from local people and businesses, and those from afar.”

Around £400 alone was raised through charity boxes in place at five businesses - Zair’s Cafe, Beverley’s Boutique, Emily’s Fashions, The Merry Monk and News on the Street.

Cllr Zair presented the businesses with certificates on Friday and offered his thanks.

Tesco’s brought together Hamsterley Beast and the Mayor of Bishop Auckland for a fun Sunday bag pack. £416 was raised in total for the Great North Air Ambulance and this amount was shared between both Hamsterley Beast and the Mayor of Bishop Auckland. Cllr Adam Zair thanked Tesco’s and their customers, also Bishop fm for their help in volunteering.

Photo Susan and Tony (Hamsterley Beast and Cllr Adam Zair