MALMESBURY’s town mayor has handed over £1,200 to Maggie’s Cancer Charity in Cheltenham.

The donation was made possible following the mayor’s charity fundraising dinner on November 12.

Malmesbury mayor, Paul Smith presented a cheque for £1,200 to the charity following a highly successful fundraising dinner in Malmesbury Town Hall.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Images taken by Cllr Paul Smith

People travel from all over north Wiltshire and Gloucestershire to get support from Maggies.

Cllr Smith was supported by them in 2019 when he was recovering from prostate cancer. Now fully recovered this visit to Maggie’s was very emotional.

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“They helped me when life was at a very low level following surgery,” he said.

“They listened and provided great advice and the group counselling sessions helped me to recover my mojo.”

When planning the future post-surgery, he said he wanted to become Mayor of Malmesbury, and that dream has become a reality.

“Meeting Gaynor (a cancer support specialist) again was fabulous and presenting them with £1,200 towards the development of the centre is a small step in spreading the word on the great work they do.

“If it wasn’t for their help I would not be the positive person I am today.”

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The three-course Sri Lankan dinner was prepared by Kalya James and his staff from Jackdaws Coffee House in the town.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Images by Cllr Paul Smith

He said: “We were very honoured and pleased to help Paul raise funds for this very worthy cause.”

The cuisine was enjoyed by some 70 guests who also enjoyed a simple quiz on Sri Lanka led by quizmaster Cllr Gavin Grant.

Maggie’s offers advice and support to anyone affected by cancer.

It has private rooms for discussions however a lot of their work is centred around a large kitchen table in a very warm homely environment.

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The kettle is always on with cakes, biscuits, chocolate and fruit on hand to create friendly professional support to anyone who happens to be there.