The new Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Robin Owens, has announced the two charities that are to benefit from his civic appeal.

They are both Bradford based and have been chosen because the Lord Mayor has had experience of how these charities can help people.

Coun Owens, who was sworn in as mayor this morning has selected the Bradford Cancer Support Daisy Appeal and The Ear Trust's Listening for Life Appeal.

The Daisy Appeal was set up to raise the £1.1 million needed to provide a new centre for cancer patients and their families, replacing the existing building at Daisy Bank.

The Ear Trust was established in 1990 and supports the work carried out by the Yorkshire Cochlear Implant Service currently based at Bradford Royal Infirmary. The Listening for Life Appeal aims to build a £2.5 million centre catering for patients, families and professionals throughout Yorkshire and beyond.

As a child, Coun Owens suffered from a disease of the middle ear and he is now virtually deaf in one ear.

He said: "We have chosen two charities that are very close to our hearts because of our own personal experiences and are two very worthy charities.

"We would encourage everyone to get involved and support as many events as possible this year to help raise money for these charities that help the people of our district."

Councillor Owens' wife Janet will be Lady Mayoress. Councillor Elaine Byrom is the Deputy Mayor and her husband David will act as consort.