The former mayor of Kingston has raised £30,328.80 for a charity which supports children with cancer and life-limiting conditions and their families.

Councillor Geoff Austin handed the sum over to Kingston-based charity Momentum at the Retiring Mayor’s Dinner, which was hosted by current mayor Cllr Julie Pickering in honour of her predecessor.

Bianca Effernay, founder and chief executive of Momentum, said: “This is a staggering amount of money and a phenomenal achievement.

“At any one time Momentum supports over 150 local families who have a seriously ill child.

“The money will make a positive difference, going towards our ongoing programme, which gives these families much-needed emotional and practical support throughout their gruelling journey.”

At the event, which took place at the Kingston Doubletree Hilton Hotel, Cllr Austin thanked all the members his fundraising committee who had assisted in raising such a large amount by organising various events during the year which included a Riverboat Trip, a Quiz Night, a Christmas Bazaar, a Folk Music Evening and concluded with a Grand Dinner/Dance on Ravens Ait.