Local News

Brenda Forster, newly appointed Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland, has committed her support to two charities close to her heart.

She has chosen to support the Great North Air Ambulance, because of their fantastic life-saving work, as well as  the Cystinosis Foundation.

The Foundation supports individuals, families and researchers in the Cystinosis community. 

The disease causes impaired growth and can lead to kidney problems, but could spread to other parts of the body. 

Councillor Forster, who represents the Kirkleatham Ward, said: "I've always supported the Air Ambulance, and I've chosen the Cystinosis Foundation as my great nephew suffers from it. 

"It's a terrible condition, and there isn't much money about to do research into it so we want to raise some more - not just for my great nephew, but because there are other children out there whose life is shortened by this dreadful disease."

Councillor Forster has served on the council for 34 years, and has previously represented the Newcomen and Coatham Wards.

She said: "There is always something happening when you are a councillor, and it doesn't matter how long you have been one – whether it is a week, a year, or 30 years and over. It's different because you are helping people and that's what I enjoy; it's lovely when someone rings up and says thank you."

Councillor Forster's term will be very much a family affair, as her brother - Al Mills – will support her as escort. 

She is also supported by her newly elected Deputy Mayor, South Bank Ward Councillor Neil Bendelow.