PUPILS are gearing up to put a teacher in the stocks and to then throw sponges at him to raise funds for charity.

Alistair Cowey, of Queen Mary’s School, at Topcliffe, near Thirsk, is to be put in the stocks as part of the school’s summer fete.

It is hoped the fete at the school between 11am until 2pm on Saturday, May 16, with free entry will raise funds for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

Mr Cowey said: "The children, from the nursery to year two, are very much a key part of organising the event.

"It’s open to everyone and we’ll have pony rides, a BBQ, face painting, bouncy castle, lucky dip and lots of stalls.

"The children will be helping to run the stalls, and of course, will I’m sure be keen to help me in my role in the stocks.

"They’re very, very enthusiastic about that! It will all be great fun, hopefully we’ll raise lots of money and I won’t get too wet."