NEW mayor Marian Swift got into the swing of her charity fundraising by encouraging people to sign up for a golf competition.

The mayor's annual golf day takes place at the Stressholme Golf Centre, in Darlington, on Friday.

Councillor Marian Swift, who took up the role as Darlington's civic leader earlier this month, and her escort, Councillor Jenny Chapman, visited the centre to see how preparations are going.

The event has been popular in the past, with dozens of teams entering and raising thousands of pounds for charity.

This year, the mayor's charities are the Darlington Coronary Care Support Group and Tracheo Oesophageal Fistula Support, which provides support to families of children born with rare congenital conditions.

Entry to the event includes brunch, halfway refreshments and a hot buffet before a presentation.

The cost is £140 per team. Phone 01325-388411.