Pupils barely believe their luck as Pudsey pays a visit

Pudsey Bear kicked off the BBC Children in Need appeal in Blyth with a surprise visit to pupils at Bede Academy.

The giant mascot joined hymn practice to say hello and get lots of cuddles and high-fives from little supporters.

The academy was nominated for a visit by student Ella Milburn's mum, who works for BT at Longbenton.

Ella, 10, of Blyth, said: "I was really excited when Pudsey came into the hall. He's really big!"

The visit pre-empted the academy's fundraising efforts for Children in Need on Friday when staff and parents donated cakes for an after-school stall to raise money for the appeal.

Staff at BT are giving their time after work for free on Friday as the Longbenton base is one of the call centres taking telephone donations on 100 lines from the public.