A CHARITY day added up to fun for youngsters at a Durham school.

Pupils at St Joseph's Roman Catholic Primary School in Gilesgate, Durham, took part in a "number day'' to raise money for the NSPCC.

The event was part of a national initiative to help youngsters improve numeracy and raise money for those in need.

The school's numeracy co-ordinator, Joan Curry, said: "We could have had a big sponsored event but at this time of year everybody is asking for money.

"Instead, we thought we would ask the children to bring in 50p, or more if they wanted, to take part.

"They had to come as a mathematical question. One girl was wearing red accessories, such as ear-rings and necklace and red socks and the question was, 'how many red things have I got?'.

"The staff and the cooks also took part and we had lots of fun. We think we have raised between £70 and £80.

"It shows that the children care and realise there are some children who will not have a very nice time at Christmas."