Outgoing Marlow Mayor Suzanne Brown had another bumper fundraising year in the role, handing over almost £15,000 for her two nominated charities as she bowed out last night.

She presented cheques to Thames Valley Air Ambulance and Marlow Opportunity Playgroup, this year’s causes, which share the fundraising pool from this year's mayoral events.

Accepting the cheque on behalf of Marlow Opportunity Playgroup were manager Jane Gibbons and playgroup treasurer Paul Stamp.

He said: "We are very grateful to the Mayor for her help with the charity and the community for their marvellous response.

"We need constant help and funding to run the playgroup. It requires a considerable amount of funding and this is particularly generous so thank you so much."

Brian Jonson helped collect the cheque on behalf of Thames Valley Air Ambulance, saying the money would help towards the crew's ongoing expansion, which includes taking delivery of a new helicopter later this year.

Marlow Opportunity Playgroup, originally part of the Red Cross in Marlow, is now based in Wooburn Green and provides specialist care for children, some of them severely disabled.

And TVAA provides emergency cover to three counties, relying solely on donations to keep its helicopter in the air 365 days a year.

Last year, Cllr Brown's fundraising efforts pulled in £20,000 for her chosen charities Marlow Age Concern and the rebuilding fund for Marlow Rowing Club.

Last night, she handed over the chains to colegaue Bob Johnson at the town's annual meeting.