THE coffers of two charities will be boosted by the borough, after the new Mayor of Dudley pledged to help them during his year in office.

Sedgley ward councillor Michael Evans was officially made Mayor of Dudley at last night’s full council meeting and announced the Leukaemia appeal at Russell Hall Hospital's Georgina Unit and the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) as his chosen charities.

Cllr Michael Evans, Mayor of Dudley, said: “I believe being mayor is the greatest honour and privilege that can be bestowed on a member of this chamber.

"I’m sure you will agree the charities I have chosen are very worthy causes, and I hope people will give what they can to these groups so they can continue their excellent work.”

Cllr Evans has been Deputy Mayor for the past 12 months and takes over from cllr Peter Miller as the borough's first citizen, who thanked council members for the "greatest year of his life."

Pensnett and Brockmoor cllr Sue Greenaway is the Mayor’s consort.

While Upper Gornal and Woodsetton cllr Doreen Ameson has been named as the Deputy Mayor of the borough for the next 12 months.