THE Mayor of Northallerton has handed over money raised from the annual ball to help two local causes in the town.

Cllr Claire Palmer presented the cheques for £329 each at a meeting of the town council, to Hambleton Foodshare for special food parcels and to Life Encounters to help pay for a Christmas meal offered to help people celebrate who are alone or in need over the festive period.

Michael Webster of Hambleton Foodshare thanked the Mayor and said they were often asked why a foodbank is needed in a town like Northallerton.

“Every year we put out 1,000 food parcels to people who can’t put food on the table, it is through the generosity of the public and donations such as this that make it possible,” he added.

Denver Thompson of New Life Encounters said they have provided a Christmas day meal in the town hall for the past five years and see families and people who may not have families coming together for fellowship and food.

“I would like to thank the town council for the donation and for the use of the town hall free of charge on Christmas day,” added Mr Thompson.