THOUSANDS of pounds has been raised to help needy youngsters thanks to the generosity of Redditch folk who took part in the BBC's Children in Need appeal on Friday.

At Matchborough First School, pupils teamed up with Action Sport to enjoy 20 minutes of physical fun and raised more than £200.

Staff at Redditch Car Audio were sponsored to dress up for the day, as were hundreds of pupils across the town.

Students at Trinity High School raised more than £900 during various events such as a beat the goalie competition, football and basketball matches, sponsored silences, a talent competition and a Mr and Mrs Trinity contest.

Teachers also formed the Trinity Morris Dancers, much to the delight and amusement of all their pupils.

NEW College held several events including car washes, a sponsored football match and a raffle.

Two Redditch youngsters took part in a tiring sponsored walk. Danielle Tudor and Lorna Reavey, who attend St Bede's School, raised about £45 with their efforts.

In Headless Cross, staff, owners and a parents from Abracadabra Nursery walked 20 miles from Halesowen to Redditch, popping into pubs on the way to collect cash. Including their sponsorship money, the nine brave souls raised more than £370.

Two Redditch companies have also teamed up to offer some fantastic prizes in a charity raffle.

Rapport Hair and Beauty in Hunt End and online lingerie business Heavenly Bodice are putting up many prizes, including the top prize of an exquisite silk robe worth £400.

Tickets cost £1 and the draw will take place on Friday at the Crabbs Cross Lane salon. Visit www.heavenlybodice.com or call Rapport on 550011 for more details.