GROUPS around the Vale took part in wacky activities to raise money for Children in Need.

Staff at the HSBC bank in Evesham dressed as Star Wars characters and raised £1,683.

Evesham town councillor Michael Elliman raised £362.73 by dressing as a Roman centurion, while customers and staff at Evesham Technology raised £4,500 with a massive sponsoring a balloon release.

At Evesham and Pershore Housing Association in Evesham staff and customers and raised £249.75. Children at St Andrews First School in Hampton sold cakes to raise £45, youngsters at Badsey Nursery School line danced and a martial arts club in Offenham did press ups.