OLD school ties and blazers were dug out of the attic by staff at the Three Counties Showground last Friday (November 16).

Twelve workers wore their old schoolwear as part of a fundraising effort for Children in Need.

They also stepped into character as well as costume, with offices becoming classrooms, detention rooms and bike sheds, while Chris Milne, chief executive of the Three Counties Agricultural Society, tried to keep the class in order.

Ashley Willoughby, fundraising co-ordinator, said: "The day was a great success and we hope to have raised around £400 for the appeal.

"Everyone really went to town, setting out from home in fancy dress and sporting a variety of black eyes, false freckles and outlandish wigs. It was brilliant fun and we're already thinking of what we can do next year."

Among others joining in the fun for Children In Need were youngsters at Eldersfield Lawn Primary School, who turned potters for the day. The children, helped by parents and staff, raised £36 by making mugs, plaques and bowls.

The objects were fired by Glazy Dazs, in Ledbury, and returned to the school on Tuesday.

Olive Porter of Clerkenwell Crescent, Malvern, raised £300 by selling novelty aprons outside her home.

Seven year-olds Lauren King and Jessica Adsett raised £70 after setting up their own little shop/stall in Court Road, Malvern.

The youngsters, helped by Jessica's five year-old brother Joe, came up with the idea of selling homemade items including Christmas cards.

Volunteers from Malvern's QinetiQ site came up with a bald stunt to raise money for the charity appeal. A team from Divine Hair Studio in Barnards Green helped remove a selection of beards and moustaches, some of which had been in place for 40 years.

While representatives from Amey and Honeywell, cajoled by Honeywell's Sarah Jackson, had a close shave, QinetiQ staff raised £200 on the day. The amount is expected to peak at £800 when all pledges are in.