Councillor Martin Love can hand over his chains of office happy in the knowledge that has enjoyed one of the most successful years of fundraising by any Lord Mayor of Bradford.
The Shipley councillor and his wife, Helen Love, have raised around £50,000 for the Bradford Hospitals’ Charity BIG Neonatal Appeal during the past year.
Councillor Love has attended more than 500 events, hosted King Charles III, celebrated Bradford as the City of Culture, hosted Platinum Jubilee and Coronation parties, marked the sad death of HM The Queen, and run the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon to raise money during his year of fundraising – all in a year’s work as Lord Mayor of Bradford.
“It’s been an absolute whirlwind. It’s been wonderful,” said Cllr Love. “We have visited care homes, schools, businesses, community centres, and people in their own homes.”
He said they were almost the shortest lived Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress due to an incident with the lighting of a beacon, but it had been smooth sailing ever since.
“We really wanted to raise money for Bradford’s Neonatal Unit because it benefits children and their parents and Bradford Hospitals’ Charity is a local cause. The babies can be in there for months and it has a huge financial and emotional impact on families. Anything we can do to lessen those effects is good.
“I would like to thank everyone who has donated or taken part in any fundraising. The support we have had has been wonderful.”
Councillor Love said he wanted to give particular thanks to the Harry and Mary Foundation for making a very generous donation to his appeal.
Bradford Hospitals’ Charity Director Sharon Milner said: “We are immensely grateful for Councillor Martin Love’s exceptional dedication and unwavering commitment to fundraising during his tenure as Lord Mayor of Bradford. His remarkable efforts, alongside his wife Helen, have surpassed all expectations for our neonatal appeal.
“Councillor Love’s tireless engagement and dedication, such as completing the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, truly exemplifies his passion for making a positive impact in our community.
“The funds raised will have a significant impact on supporting the Neonatal Unit, easing the financial and emotional burden on families facing extended stays. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who generously donated. And special thanks to the Harry and Mary Foundation for their generous contribution. Together, we are building a brighter future for children and parents in Bradford.”
The Lord Mayor’s Appeal donation page is still open for anyone wishing to make a last-minute donation. Visit https://justgiving.com/campaign/lordmayorsappeal22-23
