THE outgoing Mayor of Bury held a special reception to thank individuals and businesses who have supported her chosen charities.

Wednesday, May 16 marks Councillor Dorothy Gunther's last day in office.

At a farewell gathering, Cllr Gunther and her husband and mayor's consort, Michael Gunther, hosted dozens of representatives from across Bury for tea and cake to show their gratitude.

Cllr Gunther said: "It was a lovely event. It was so nice to spend the time with some of the people who had benefited.

"Over the past year, we have been to a lot of lovely places and met a lot of interesting people.

"One of the main highlights has to be the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers 50th Anniversary. The affinity between the people of the borough and the regiment is really something quite moving.

"We have also really enjoyed having the children come to visit us at the town hall, and enjoyed travelling around Bury's schools.

"It has been a wonderful year.

"My admiration for the Queen and the royal family has increased tremendously because they do these things all the time."

Key figures from businesses, charities, network groups and other connections turned out to the Mayor's parlour at Bury Town Hall on Tuesday, May 8.

Councillor Gunther selected three charities that would benefit from her term in office — Bury Hospice, who offer care and support to people approaching the end of their life in Bury, Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary, one of the largest sanctuaries in the North West, and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, who save lives by providing a lifeboat service, seasonal lifeguards, flood rescue response and water safety education.

Representatives from East Lancashire Masonic Charity, Bury Council, 207 Field Hospital, Millgate shopping centre, Barclays Bank, Made in Bury and Best of Bury were among those in attendance.

Local artist E. Anthony Orme and G J Plastics were among those invited. In March this year, they, in partnership with the Mayor’s Charity Committee, installed 'The People's Art' charity art wall at the town hall to help raise funds for deserving local causes.

Vlasta and Christopher Orme were also in attendance, as well as representatives from the East Lancashire Masonic Charity, Millgate shopping centre and Bury Means Business.