A FRIENDLY neighbourhood bobby was locked up over the weekend - and pelted with wet sponges.

PC Kevin Woodcock, beat officer for Evenwood, near Bishop Auckland, County Durham, got a good soaking as he helped pupils, parents and teachers from the village school raise money for a new security system.

So far, the small community has pulled together to raise almost £8,000 for security fencing and a range of other equipment for Evenwood School. When the officer was approached to lend a hand, he got more than he bargained for at the fun day.

He said: "The day went really well, plenty of people turned out and there was quite a bit to do.

"People wondered how I was going to react at first, but once the kids started everybody joined in and I was soaked.

"I did this because I am their beat officer, and I want to show that the police are not just arresting machines - we have a good sense of humour as well."