ONE of the most senior Army officers in the North of England has been presented with a substantial cheque to boost his welfare funds.

The former mayor of Richmond, Bob White, accompanied by his wife Moira, presented £2,914 to Brigadier Charlie Herbert, commander of 4 Mechanized Brigade, outside his headquarters in Catterick Garrison.

In his year of office Cllr White raised a record £8,500 for charities and believed it was only right that one should be a military good cause - so he selected the brigade’s Black Rat Fund.

“I have always said Richmond must keep a good relationship with the Garrison,” he said.

“We are so close together so we are always helping each other so I am delighted to provide some welcome money for their fund.”

Brig Herbert praised the former mayor for improving the relationship between the local community and the Garrison.

“We are hugely grateful he raised this money for the Black Rat Fund, which is used to support our servicemen and women carry out their welfare activities. I am sure it will be well used,” he said.