HARRY Potter, Noddy and Bill and Ben were amongst colourful characters raising money for Acorns Children's Hospice - and promoting new Hereford Times news stands.

Staff, and their children, at the Co-op, Grandstand Road, Hereford, raised £500 for the charity.

Store manager Gary Heason said: "We were delighted with the response from our customers who continue to make donations.

"The staff made a real effort to design their costumes and had a fun day raising money for this worthy cause."