Pudsey, the iconic BBC Children in Need mascot visited Dodleston CE Primary School in Chester as part of the Pudsey Schools Roadshow.
The roadshow is celebrating schools across the country participating in the Big Spotacular, the new schools fundraising campaign by Lloyds Bank and BBC Children in Need.
Dodleston CE Primary School was one of just 20 schools nationwide to win the Pudsey Schools Roadshow visit, having signed up for a free Big Spotacular charity fundraising kit.
This year’s fundraising campaign is encouraging school children and teachers across the UK to go spotty for BBC Children in Need in the weeks leading up to the Appeal Night, with children and teachers dressing in spots, selling spotty cakes and goods and taking part in spotty themed challenges to raise money.
Ahead of Pudsey’s visit Dodleston CE Primary School was provided with a celebration kit including Pudsey ears, bunting, balloons, stickers and much more to help welcome the BBC Children in Need mascot and turn their school truly spotty.
Pudsey entertained the children with games, quizzes and music, and encouraged them to come up with the most imaginative ways that they can raise money in advance of Appeal week.
The children even received the rare opportunity to pose for photographs with the BBC Children in Need mascot.
Headteacher Julie Boyes said: “The children are incredibly excited that Pudsey is coming to visit Dodleston C of E Primary School! Having the chance to meet Pudsey is a really nice way to get the children involved in raising money for The Big Spotacular, a Lloyds Bank fundraising campaign for BBC Children in Need.”
Stuart Beaver, Director, Partnership & Community Programmes at Lloyds Banking Group said: “We have been so inspired by the brilliant fundraising happening in schools across the country which helps BBC Children in Need support even more disadvantaged children and young people.
“The Pudsey Schools Roadshow is our way of giving a little back to the schools and children that have contributed so much to this fundraising success.
“Our partnership with BBC Children in Need continues to form an important part of the Group’s Helping Britain Prosper Plan, with tackling disadvantage in local communities one of the ways we’re addressing some of the big issues facing people, businesses and communities of Britain today.”
Jonathan Rigby, Director of Marketing and Fundraising, BBC Children in Need, said: “What better way to show your support for BBC Children in Need than by joining the Big Spotacular and turning your school spotty during this year’s Charity Appeal?
From spotty cake bakes to spotty sports days, spotty sponge throws to spotty fancy dress, we’ve been blown away by the UK’s schools fundraising efforts so far.
“Join the fun, get involved and together we can help raise more money than ever before for children and young people who need a little help.”
To find out more about the Big Spotacular and request a free fundraising kit please visit: www.bbcchildreninneed.co.uk/schools
