Mayor’s charity fundraising supports three Stone groups

More than £3,700 has been raised for local good causes thanks to the fundraising efforts of Stone’s former mayor, Councillor Philip Leason.

During his 2024/25 term of office, Councillor Leason chose three community-based charities to benefit from his mayoral fundraising – Stone Community First Responders, the Alzheimer’s Club and the Stone Stroke Club.

He handed over the donations earlier this month, with the Responders receiving £2,500, the Alzheimer’s Club £500 and the Stroke Club £766.57.

“It is a great honour to act as Mayor of Stone and I am particularly pleased to have been able to raise funds for such deserving causes, which will be used to better the lives of the town’s people,” Councillor Leason said.

Year of local fundraising

Throughout his year in office, Councillor Leason supported numerous events and community initiatives across Stone, often seen at gatherings from High Street fairs to smaller charity coffee mornings. His chosen organisations each play an active role in helping residents – from emergency response to companionship and rehabilitation.

Stone Community First Responders, a volunteer team linked with West Midlands Ambulance Service, use donations to maintain life-saving equipment and vehicles. The Alzheimer’s Club provides weekly meet-ups and support for those living with memory loss, while the Stroke Club offers a social space and exercise sessions for local people recovering from strokes.

Continued community spirit

Councillor Leason said the town’s generosity made all the difference. “The response from residents, local businesses and community groups has been humbling,” he added. “Every event, every raffle ticket sold, every cup of tea shared has helped raise this money.”

The presentation marks the close of his mayoral year, but the charities say the support will have lasting impact. Volunteers from each group attended the handover, which took place at the council offices in Stone.

Stone Town Council thanked everyone who contributed to the fundraising across the year.