THE mayor of Weston, Cllr Ciaran Cronnelly, has raised nearly £8.5k to help fund the work of a vital charity.

Over the weekend (Saturday, March 2) the mayor tackled his marathon challenge, the proceeds of which have been donated to Weston Foodbank.

Speaking on Sunday, Cllr Cronnelly said: "What an incredible town - what an incredible community effort.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you.

"I'm really appreciative of all the support Weston has provided to me and WsM Foodbank as I undertook my marathon challenge yesterday.

"Running a marathon is hard, but the toots of your car horns, the cheering me on and your messages of support made it easier.

"Since this afternoon we have raised almost £8.5k in donations for WsM Foodbank during my term as mayor - a mixture of individual and corporate donations.

"This has all been because of your generosity - I'm really grateful to everyone who has donated/supported.

"I'll keep the JustGiving page open until the end of March for any final donations.

"This has very much been a collective town effort and would not have been possible without a wide range of support from across Weston-super-Mare.

"Thank you to The Grand Pier and Anytime Fitness Weston-Super-Mare who helped me turn this wild idea into reality and have been incredibly supportive.

"Special mention to The Landing Light, The Manor - Sizzling Pubs and The Windsor Castle who acted as my water stations - sorry I couldn't stay too long but really appreciate the support you provided.

"Big appreciation to Weathered Oak - Photography and Videography for the videography and Heidi Burton ABIPP, Photographer for the photography, both of which have donated their time for free.

"The reason I was able to complete this marathon is due to the advice, coaching and training provided by a range of community groups.

"Thank you to Weston-super-Mare AFC, Weston Athletic Club, Weston Gymnastics Centre Open Page, Marine Parade parkrun, Phoenix Academy of Martial Arts, Tee-Dees Coaching and many others.

"Special mention to Kira Thorpe from park run who stayed out for my entire marathon ahead of each checkpoint waving the flag, playing music and shouting encouragement.

"It takes a huge effort to arrange something like this and it wouldn't have been possible without the efforts of Weston-super-Mare Town Council - thank you.