Twenty charities have been given donations amounting to almost £6,000 from the former mayor of Broadstairs and St Peter's, Cllr David Lawson.

Cllr Lawson thanked everyone who had supported him in what he described as "a fantastic year," especially his wife Julia.

"When I first became Mayor I said that I wanted to increase the profile of the Mayoralty and to help local youth groups.

"I think I have been successful in both respects, although there are still some projects I'll have to get around to on another occasion.

"I was very happy to present cheques for £2,000 each to our chosen charities, the Alzheimers Society and Guide Dogs for the Blind, plus cheques to more than 20 local youth groups, including the Scouts, Guides, Army Cadets, Sea Cadets, Air Cadets and Church Youth groups.

"I am very grateful indeed to the local people who generously supported our charity fundraising events."