Epsom's former mayor has presented £8,500 of funds raised in his mayoral year to Epsom and Ewell Talking Newspaper (EETN).

Councillor Neil Dallen joined members of the talking newspaper for a cheque presentation earlier this month.

The EETN produces a weekly recording of local news, magazine articles, podcasts, recipes and jokes which is sent out free of charge to those with impaired vision or who struggle to read small print.

The charity is run entirely by volunteers and was chosen by Councillor Dallen as one of his three charities after personal experience of his father’s sight loss.

Speaking at the presentation, EETN Chairman, Judy Sarssam said, “We are thrilled to bits and so grateful to Neil, his wife and family for all their time and effort.

"They worked their socks off. Huge thanks are also due to very many people and businesses who supported the fundraising year.

"Whether you donated a bottle of wine, bought a raffle ticket or came along to a curry night or quiz evening, thank you sincerely.

"Because of your enthusiasm and generosity, this marvellous donation helps us continue our work.

"We need funds to keep recording equipment up-to-date, and to buy memory sticks and boom boxes so our listeners can play the newsletter recordings in their homes.

"We will be in the Ashley Centre on 31 October and do hope people will come up and say hello and learn more about what we do."

Councillor Dallen added: “My Mayoral year was great fun. Part of that fun was the fundraising for my three charities – WSS, Girl Guiding and of course Epsom and Ewell Talking Newspaper.

"It is also great to see the reward of all our hard work with the presentation of cheques for £8,500, a fantastic result.

"Thank you everyone who helped achieve this. I wish everyone at Talking Newspapers the very best.”

Joan Deering, an enthusiastic listener who has received the newsletter for a number of years, said: "I look forward to listening to the latest edition every week. I enjoy the variety of items and with all the different voices, I feel as if I am in the recording studio with everyone.”

For further information visit https://eetn.org.uk