COMIC capers were the order of the day, as schools and businesses across Bury got their act together for Comic Relief on Friday (March 16).

Staff caused a stir at Chestnut Court Nursing Home in Newton Street, Bury, with male managers dressing up as nurses, and women as odd job men and chefs. The home hopes to raise at least £200 for the cause.

Activities co-ordinator Mark Howsham said: "There was a great atmosphere. Residents really benefited from it, seeing people in a whole new light."

Call staff at the BT Cellnet centre in Dumers Lane were "fined" for arriving at work without a pair of underpants on their head.

Communications manager Rod Simmons said: "The call centre was bombarded with red balloons and everyone was really up for it.

"Most people turned up with pants on their head, so the money was raised through donations and raffles." Youngsters from Tottington Private Nursery were sponsored to wear as many items of red clothing as possible. They are still collecting money, but aim to raise at least £1,000.

And pictured with her red nose is three-year-old nursery pupil Lucy Knox who certainly entered into the spirit.

At Unsworth Library, pupils from St Bernardette's RC Primary in Whitefield were sponsored to wear their pyjamas, while over at Derby High School pupils held a charity concert, dressing and performing as their favourite pop stars.

The 20th Bury Beavers, based at St Peter's School, Whitefield Road, took their cue from the Comic Relief catchphrase "Say Pants to Poverty", covering with coins a pair of underpants drawn on to card.

In Brandlesholme, Woodbank Primary School had a "Sleepy Time Day" with pupils holding a pyjama party. The infants enjoyed a "Bob The Builder" party.

And throughout the week youngsters at Hazlehurst Primary School in Ramsbottom baked "red nose buns", which were sold to schoolmates for comic relief, raising at least £100.

Donated

Ingredients were donated to the school by Healds Fourways, Holcombe Brook.

Reception teacher Helen Parkinson said: "The children have been making them all week. They siad that it's better than work, but I think they preferred eating them!"