FORMER Mayor of Caldicot Maria Stevens presented a cheque for nearly £750 to Velindre Cancer Care.

The money was raised by a number of events around the area during the Caldicot town councillor's year as mayor of Caldicot.

Councillor Stevens said one of the highlights of the year was a sing-a-thon by pupils at Durand Primary School.

She said: "As part of town council mayoral duties it is usual that a favourite charity is nominated by the mayor for fund-raising.

"The charity I chose for my year in office as town council mayor for 2011-2012 was Velindre Cancer Care.

"Velindre Cancer Care provides radiotherapy, chemotherapy and other specialised anti-cancer treatments for more than half the people of Wales.

"Part of the amount was raised by a wonderful sing-a-thon by children and staff of Durand Primary School.

"Other donations were made by local groups and individuals in Caldicot.

"I would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to all those who helped in raising the total of £744.24 towards this essential and very worthwhile charity."