A SCHOOL's unit for blind and partially-sighted youngsters has been given a £15,500 boost by a former mayor.

Councillor Margaret Adair raised the money while she was Durham's first citizen during the 1999-2000 civic year.

She gave the money to the unit at Belmont Infants School, Durham, to pay for special resources needed by its pupils.

Her appeal fund raised a total of £25,500 and the other £10,000 was given to Guide Dogs for the Blind to train four puppies as guide dogs.

Coun Adair said: "I had a tremendous year as Mayor of Durham, and the most rewarding part of all was achieving a fantastic goal in the Mayor's Appeal.

"Fundraising activities exhausted many people, particularly the strenuous sports and weekend-long aerobics sessions, but they were all very worthwhile.

"The appeal fund will make a difference to many of the young people at Belmont school, and means four people with very poor sight will have a new lease of life through their own guide dogs. Thanks to everyone who contributed during my year of office. I'm sure you're as delighted as I am with the marvellous results.''