DOTTY fundraisers pulled out all the stops to collect cash for the BBC Children in Need appeal.

Across North Somerset, schools, businesses and individuals took part in wacky challenges and activities to collect cash for the cause, which sees money given to projects providing support to children across the UK.

Gilly’s Cafe in Nailsea’s High Street was turned into Gilly Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, with staff dressed as umpa lumpas and customer’s given the chance to find a golden ticket. Hannah, the daughter of cafe owner Gilly Chu, also held her own sponsored silence.

Staff at Heritage estate agents in Portishead pedalled for 26 miles on two static bikes, the equivalent distance between its four offices and back again, while dressed as characters from the popular Toy Story films.

Yeo Moor Primary School in Clevedon and Crockerne Primary School in Pill both held spotty-themed days with pupils and staff dressing up and taking part in fundraising activities.

At Kingshill Primary School in Nailsea, year six pupils raised �135 with a cake sale and pupils at St Peter’s Primary School in Portishead used everything from fruit and vegetables to sponge and clay to make their own Pudsey Bear.

At Clevedon School, pupils took part in a table cloth-pulling contest. A-level business studies students also had the chance to present a cheque during the live broadcast from Weston’s pier on Friday evening after raising �2,700 from a talent contest held in October.

At Backwell School, year 11 students dressed in baby grows for the day and raised �140.

Cassie Glover, accounts assistant at the Congresbury hotel, DoubleTree by Hilton at Cadbury House, took a bath in baked beans in an attempt to raise �1,500.

* For online galleries of many more Children in Need pictures click the link at the top right of this story.