A FORMER mayor of Hartlepool has praised the generosity of people who supported his fundraising efforts during his year in office.

Councillor Frank Rogers, who left office in May, paid tribute to the town after raising more than £7,000. He spoke after handing £3,629 to the Hartlepool Blind Welfare Association.

A cheque for £1,750 has been presented to the Mission for Seafarers, and a further £2,000 will be given to the Kilimantinde Trust, an organisation working to help people in Tanzania.

Coun Rogers said: "I was delighted to raise so much money, but it wouldn't have been possible without the generous support of many Hartlepool people.

"My three chosen charities are all causes close to my heart, and I hope that the money raised will really help them to make a difference.