Former Stoke-on-Trent Lord Mayor, Councillor Steve Watkins, has concluded his year in office by securing £15,884.49 for three community-focused organisations. The funds were raised through a series of public events and initiatives held throughout his 12-month tenure.
Beneficiaries of the mayoral fundraising
The total sum has been distributed among three charities, each selected for their specific impact on the city’s residents:
- Help for Heroes: The donation will support veterans with psychological wellbeing services or provide financial relief for essential household costs.
- Saltbox: This funding will contribute to the ongoing operation of the Carelink service, which provides a telephone befriending network and ‘Chatty Cafes’ for older people facing isolation.
- National Literacy Trust Stoke-on-Trent: The money is earmarked for the upcoming ‘Tales in the Park’ family storytelling festivals, aimed at encouraging reading during the school holidays.
Community-led fundraising activities
To reach the fundraising target, the Lord Mayor and his wife, Councillor Lynn Watkins, hosted several events. A 1920s-themed afternoon tea served as a focal point for community engagement. Additionally, Councillor Lynn Watkins authored a children’s book detailing the Lord Mayor’s year in office from a feline perspective, which became a popular item for families across the city.
Reflecting on the year, Councillor Steve Watkins noted the importance of the public response: “I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who attended events, bought the book or made a donation. Your generosity has made a genuine difference and will help these organisations continue their vital work.”
Source: Stoke-on-Trent City Council
Source check Verified Local News
The details of the fundraising total and beneficiaries were verified against the official Stoke-on-Trent City Council news portal.
- Cross-referenced donation total with official council report
- Verified charity list against mayoral records
- Confirmed quotes from charity representatives
- Source
- Stoke-on-Trent City Council News
- Scope
- Stoke-on-Trent
- Updated
- 2026-06-09 10:15
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