THE Mayor is returning to bar work after a 25 year break, in a bid to raise money for charity.

Cynthia Palmer plans to volunteer at a variety of businesses in Malvern, including The Foley Arms Hotel, as part of her 'Rent-the-Mayor' campaign.

Cllr Palmer hopes she will hit her target of raising £5,000 for Acorns Children's Hospice by May through the fundraising effort.

She has already collected £4,000 since the start of her term and it is expected that this drive will raise the rest.

Dilys Watson, events co-ordinator for Malvern Town Council, said six businesses in Malvern have already accepted the Mayor's offer to volunteer.

"We have Costa Coffee, Wetherspoons, a dental practice, Santander, the Post Office and a supermarket," she said.

"They are giving her jobs to do. We hope other organisations will come forward when it's advertised.

"Throughout March any business that would like to rent the mayor to work for an hour can do so."

Cllr Palmer said: "I have worked in a bar years before. I'm returning after 25 years.

"I'm going into Wetherspoons and I think I will be pouring pints.

"I'm looking forward to it. People have been so kind and I'm hoping to collect as much as I can."

Mrs Palmer has toured the Acorns Children's Hospice centre and said she was impressed with the charity's supportive nature and the positivity of the children.

Businesses can contribute to the campaign in exchange for the Mayor's time and locals can donate when they see her volunteering.

Cllr Palmer will kick off the campaign by working at DELIcious cafe on Wednesday, March 8.

Any businesses that wish to hire the Mayor can email dwatson@malvern-tc.org.uk.