There was a packed programme of Pudsey projects across North Herts and Stevenage as supporters raised cash to boost the annual BBC Children In Need appeal.
Although Friday night’s TV audience for the nationwide fundraiser was the lowest for nearly a decade as viewers tuned in to news channels for the latest headlines in the wake of terrorist attacks on Paris, organisers have still reported that the appeal – without host Terry Wogan for the first time in its 35-year history due to ill health – still raised an on-the-night record of £37 million with more money still coming in.
Children and staff at Stevenage’s Woolenwick Infant and Nursery School chipped in 50p each to dress in spots, with a giant Pudsey being raffled and a bake sale also helping add to the total of £210.
Members of Hitchin Tilehouse Rotary Club raised a whopping £1,200 through a £10 a head breakfast meeting at the town’s Sun Hotel, which also featured a blind bottle raffle.
Winners had to pick their prize at random from the wrapped bottles, which included wine – and pickled eggs.
In Stevenage, the Poplars Toddler Group – based at the community centre off Magpie Crescent – raised £53.30 by holding a pyjama party at its regular Monday morning session.
Hitchin Bridge Club ran three simultaneous pairs events, raising £667.95 for the charity.
A mind-boggling £1,940 was raised at Hartsfield Primary School in Baldock as children and staff came into school wearing pyjamas and superhero outfits.
Over at Baldock’s St Mary Junior School, £320 was raised through a variety of events attended by children in spotted or striped pyjamas – including ‘beat the goalie’, a netball challenge, cake sales and a raffle.
Pupils at Icknield Infant and Nursery School were now slouches, holding a Strictly Come Dancing-themed fancy dress event to show their support for the charity.
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