Witham's outgoing mayor raised almost £4,000 for good causes during her time in office.

JoAnn Williams gave two cheques for £1,858 to her chosen charities - Witham Operatic Workshop and Little Havens Hospice - at her final ceremony as town mayor last month.

The cash was raised through various fundraisers throughout the civic year, including a quiz night and the town council's popular Highland Dinner Dance.

Mrs Williams, who represents Witham's north ward on the town council, said: "Thanks to the generosity of the people of Witham for helping these two wonderful and deserving charities.

"We have some incredible young people in Witham and a group like WOW provides yet another channel for them to explore and grow their talents and interests.

"And while they are doing that, they are developing other community-minded skills as well. They form lifelong friendships and sometimes discover a new career path."

Mrs Williams has visited Little Havens Hospice and has seen first hand the amazing care the charity provides.

She said: "If a family have a child or young person who has a life-limiting or life-threatening condition, Little Havens Hospice can help.

"They are here to make the journey as comfortable as possible, by offering planned respite stays, managing symptoms, such as controlling pain and adjusting medications and caring for children at the end of their lives.

"They care for not only the ill child, but also their siblings and parents.

"They do amazing work and if you ever get a chance to tour their facilities, you will see exactly what I mean."

Councillor Tom Pleasance is Witham's new town mayor, with Clare Lager his deputy.