THE outgoing chairman of Malvern Hills District Council has raised £10,000 for local charities during her year in office.

Cllr Chris O’Donnell, together with her consort and husband Tony, attended more than 100 civic events across Malvern Hills district and the wider Worcestershire area in the last 12 months.

Cllr O’Donnell relinquished the chairman’s chain at the council’s annual meeting on Tuesday, but not before handing over cheques to her chosen charities.

St Richard’s Hospice, which provides expert care and support for adults affected by life-limiting illness, received £5,000.

Another £5,000 was donated to What Makes You Different Makes You Beautiful, the Malvern-based charity which supports more than 300 children and families with special needs across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

Cllr O’Donnell (Wells, Conservative) said: “This is the first time I've been chairman of the council and I've loved every minute of it. I've met some fantastic people during the last 12 months and it's been a privilege to be able to get out and about meeting people, represent our beautiful district and spread the news about the good work the council does.

“I’m delighted I was able to raise such a fantastic amount for two very deserving charities doing vital work and I’d like to thank everyone for their support and generosity.”

Taking on the role of chairman for the next 12 months is Cllr Andrea Morgan (Upton, Conservative).

She said: “It’s an honour to be chosen as chairman and ambassador of malvern Hills District Council and I cannot wait to get out into the community in my new role.

"Offering my support to people and businesses throughout the district over the coming year and highlighting all the things we can do to help them fills me with excitement, and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

The new chairman’s chosen charity is Cancer Aid, which helps people who have money difficulties caused through not being able to work due to their illness.

The council's new vice-chairman is Cllr Tony Baker (Dyson Perrins, Conservative), who, like cllr Morgan, was elected unopposed.