TWO children's charities are thousands of pounds better off thanks to a mayor's year in office.

Councillor Eileen Rochford, who was Durham's mayor in the year to May, chose the Butterwick Children's Hospice, in Stockton, and the Round Table Children's Wish as her favoured causes.

The £25,207 the charities are sharing was raised at events including the city's annual civic ball, race nights, cricket matches, a sponsored toddle and a non-uniform day at eight schools.

Coun Rochford, a child care worker and garage owner, from Esh Winning, said: "Children and dying children are a very emotional subject. We need both these charities to support the children and their families.''

Hospice founder Mary Butterwick said: "We are delighted and grateful that Eileen chose to support the Butterwick Children's Hospice during her year in office.

"This kind of support really does make a huge difference to the lives of our children and their families.''

The Round Table Children's Wish helps terminally ill children fulfil their wishes.

The charity's interests in the region are looked after by Councillor Rochford's partner, Barry Grimes.

Stuart King, of the charity, said: "We are extremely grateful and will be able to grant even more wishes for these special children.''

Current Mayor Ray Gibbon, is raising money for the city's Volunteer Bureau.