A MAYOR has chosen a group which helps people with life-limiting conditions as his charity of the year.

Witham's mayor, Tom Pleasance, picked the The J’s Hospice, which has been based in Newland Street in the town since last September.

It offers activities, advice and nursing to people aged between 16 and 40, and their families, who are living with life-limiting conditions.

Councillor Pleasance said: "I'm so humbled to have the opportunity to support The J's Hospice in my civic year.

"I was so unaware of the gap in care that existed for the over 16s young people until 2016 when listening to a J's volunteer who gave a passionate talk.

"I'm so encouraged by the offering of so many options of direct care, advice and specialist support to these young adults with life-changing conditions.

"I look forward to being part of the fundraising."

The charity gives people a choice on how and where they are cared for to help them manage their illness so they can concentrate on living.

To start his fundraising year, Cllr Pleasance will have a stall at the Witham Carnival on July 14 to raise money and awareness.

Marianna Alexandrou, the charity’s local community fundraiser, said: "On behalf of everyone at The J’s Hospice, I’d like to thank Councillor Pleasance for choosing us as his Charity of the Year and everyone in Witham for your support.

"We can only exist because of your kindness - your fundraising helps the young adults that we care for to live their lives to the full, however short.

"We look forward to working with the Mayor’s office over the next twelve months, starting with the carnival, which sounds fantastic."

Visit www.thejshospice.org.uk.