HUNDREDS of primary pupils turned up for school in their pyjamas with their teddy bears tucked under their arms.

But they hadn’t all overslept – they were taking part in a fundraising event for Southampton Hospital’s children’s neurosurgery ward.

Almost £200 was raised during the Teddy Day, which was organised because Year 3 student Jessica Kelly is treated at the ward for hydrocephalus.

One of her friends at Christ the King Catholic Primary School in Bournemouth came up with the idea of the Teddy Day and the whole school took part.

Hydrocephalus is a condition where too much fluid in the head can cause development problems or permanent damage to a child’s vision.

The youngsters enjoyed teddy bears’ picnics with squash and cake in their classrooms.

And AFC Bournemouth mascot Cherry Bear joined in the fun.

Assistant headteacher Emma Clark said the children were excited about the day and thrilled to see their teachers had also dressed up.

“They all brought their favourite teddies and explained why they were special to them. They also took part in teddy bear-themed activities in their classrooms.

“It was a lovely idea because Jessica spent a long time in hospital.”