AN outgoing mayor has marked his departure by donating more than £1,600 to his chosen charities.

Like every mayor, Councillor Ken Murray, mayor of Sunderland, was asked on his appointment to select two causes to benefit from fundraising during his year in office.

He chose Macmillan Cancer Care and the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), which he presented with cheques amounting to more than £1,600 as a parting gift.

The money was raised by 50 council staff and two Macmillan nurses, who undertook a Derwent Hill Challenge, involving a two-day session of outdoor activities at the council-run Derwent Hill centre in Keswick.

Coun Murray said: "This is a perfect way to sign off after a year as the mayor of the City of Sunderland. It's been a great honour and I've met some wonderful people along the way.

"One of the greatest things was being able to nominate two causes close to my heart."

More money will be raised for the mayor's charities through a golf tournament at the Ramside Golf Club, in Durham.