Pupils across West Cumbria put on their Pudsey ears and donned their spottiest outfits to raise money for Children in Need.

Schools and nurseries have been getting involved in fundraising activities today that have included a sponsored toddle and a visit from Pudsey the bear himself.

Children at Flimby School were delighted when Pudsey turned up to join in the fun.

He was greeted by the school choir and then enjoyed afternoon tea with ten excited pupils.

Headteacher Jacqui Wilson said: "They were stunned in to silence when they saw him! They thoroughly enjoyed it and have been excited all week."

The school has raised £550, which Mrs Wilson said was a "phenomenal amount of money".

Pupils at Arlecdon School brought their teddy bears in to the classroom for the day.

Youngsters also watched videos to find out more about the charity and how the money they have raised will help to make a difference.

The school has raised £76, which office manager, Sarah Laybourne said was "amazing" for a small school.

In Lamplugh, toddlers at Woodend Country Childcare put on their Pudsey ears for a sponsored 'waddle toddle', while staff and parents organised a cake sale and raffle.

Director Claire Sharpe said the nursery had raised over £700 so far and she hoped they will match last year's impressive fundraising total of £900.

At Kells Infants School in Whitehaven, children dressed in spots, sold cakes and covered giant Pudsey Bears in money. They raised £290.

St Gregory's & St Patrick's Catholic Infant School, also in Whitehaven, held a spotty day, which has raised £208 so far.

This year Pudsey is asking people to 'do your thing', which can be something you're good at, something you've always fancied doing, or something you want to challenge yourself to try to give up.

All money raised from Children in Need is used to change the lives of disadvantaged children and young people in the UK.

To date, the annual charity event has raised more than £890 million to help make a difference in the lives of the children who need it.

To make a donation to Children in Need, visit: www.bbcchildreninneed.co.uk.