A TOWN’S mayor has had his bushy beard shaved off in aid of a benevolent fund for retired police dogs.

Peterlee Mayor Councillor Scott Meikle donned his mayoral chains for the shave at Gentleman’s Lounge Barbers in Yoden Road, Peterlee, to raise funds for PawsUp.

He was joined by members of Peterlee Neighbourhood Policing team and mascot PawsUp Bob.

Cllr Scott Meikle said: “I started growing my beard a near ago on January 1 and said I would like to do something for charity.

“I do a lot of work with the police, specially with the PCSOs engaging with the youth.

“During the year we had an emergency services day where I met Ian Squires who is a police Interceptor and whose dog Kaiser retired - so i chose PawsUp.”

PCSO Michelle Burr said: “The Peterlee neighbourhood policing team work very closely with the Peterlee Town Council.

“Land was donated by Peterlee Town Council for a community garden at Woodhouse Park and the council is also providing funding for youth sessions, provided by Groundwork

“We are delighted that Cllr Meikle he has chosen Paw retired police dogs.”