The mayor of Malmesbury has handed over a cheque to a charity that supported him when he was recovering from prostate cancer

Cllr Paul Smith has provided £1,200 to Maggie’s Cancer Charity in Cheltenham following the mayor’s charity fundraising dinner on November 12.

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: 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.

“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 for 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.”

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

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: 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 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.

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.