Dudley MP Ian Austin has started donating his politicians’ pay rise to Dudley's community groups, charities and other good causes.

Dudley North MP, Ian Austin, has kept to his promise to donate his pay rise to good causes.

Before he was re-elected in May, Mr Austin pledged to give the extra cash he received as a result of the increase in politician's pay packets to Dudley's community groups, charities and other worthy causes.

The Labour MP has now established a ‘good causes’ account with Castle & Crystal Credit Union - the community bank based at New Street, Dudley, that has helped hundreds of residents with affordable loans.

The proceeds of the pay rise will be paid into the account and donated to organisations to improve education and those opening up opportunities for young people in the town. Mr Austin has already given away hundreds of pounds to groups including the Royal British Legion, Guide Dogs for the Blind, the Jasmine Road Community Garden, the Woodsetton Trust and Himley Hall Sailing Club.