THE mayor's civic dinner, raising vital cash for charity, has been hailed a  huge success.

The 40s theme evening, held at Kohima House, Army Centre, was raising money for town mayor Joe Baker's charities.

Councillor Baker said: "It was a fun packed evening with local councillors, residents and mayors from around the county.

"I had chosen the Army Centre to show support for all the hard work our armed forces do in keeping us safe.

"The venue was fantastic and the Army cadets who volunteered to help out were absolutely brilliant."

The event managed to raise more than £1,000 through the sale of raffle tickets.

Cllr Baker added: "A big thank you to all those who attended.

"It was a brilliant night with a theme of togetherness which was reflected in the table names giving recognition to people throughout history who had given so much for our liberties, from Mother Theresa to Allen Turing."

He thanked especially Captain Martin Smith of the 37th Signal Regiment for helping to organise the event.

Leader of Redditch Council Councillor Bill Hartnett gave a reading to highlight the year that Cllr Baker Has had.

He said: "This year has been one of diversity, inclusion and equality, and this has been reflected in the work that Joe has done, from assisting me in lowering the flag at the town hall in a show of unity to all those who have been victim of recent terror attacks, supporting faith and diversity walks, to Stonewall presenting the borough with a LGBT champions award."

The evening was supported by a swing band organised by local musician Steve Barns.