HUNDREDS of Preston fund-raisers said 'pants to poverty' on Friday in aid of this year's Comic Relief.

And with more than £17m raised so far nationwide -- fund-raisers are just 'panting' for more of the same next year.

Nurseries, schools and businesses in the Preston and South Ribble areas all saw red and dressed up and donated money for the cause which helps tackle poverty in Third World countries as well as the UK.

Children at Brambley Hedge Nursery School, in New Lane, Penwortham, raised around £100 for the good cause after paying a pound to wear their shorts on top of their trousers -- and even the staff got roped in.

Tiny tots at Wonderland Kindergarten, in Waterloo Road, Ashton, Preston, dressed up as their favourite nursery rhyme, story or toy character for the fulfilled day raising an estimated £450.

Meanwhile youngsters at Leyland's Wonderland Kindergarten, in Fox Lane, raked in the cash with a jolly pyjama party, while schoolchildren at Moss Side Primary School, in Leyland, enjoyed a range of fun activities and raised more than £750 -- with cash still coming in.

Leyland 11th Brownies, who meet at Spring Meadow Community Centre in Clayton-le-Woods, produced a great big pair of pants to get the message across.

While Debbie Walmsley of Costa Coffee in St George's Shopping Centre, Preston, rattled a collection tin as she served customers.