Ref. 28004/2AN AIR of Hollywood wafted through a village primary school as hobbits, wizards and Barbie dolls arrived for lessons on Friday.

Children at Staverton Primary School hosted a movie character day to help raise money for a church roof appeal.

Members of the school council dreamt up the fundraising drive after hearing about an appeal launched by the Tin Church in Hilperton Marsh.

Disney provided most of the inspiration for character ideas, while new epics Harry Potter and The Lord Of The Rings gave the older children some inspiration.

Headteacher Liz Bannister said pupils took part in a morning procession to show off their costumes.

"It was all down to members of the school council. They heard about the roof appeal and were quite concerned," she said.

"It was a lovely atmosphere. I thought it was sweet to watch the children doing their maths in the role of Cinderella and Snow White.

"We had quite a lot of characters from Harry Potter and for the older children were excited by The Lord Of The Rings.

"We had quite a few representatives from Middle Earth.

"One pupil dressed up as Austin Powers and the Year 6 pupils were listening to the music at lunchtime."

Mrs Bannister said she was amazed at the effort put into the costumes, but admitted she had her personal favourites.

"I think we had lots and lots of Barbie dolls and they were very sweet. You don't often see girls dressed up in frilly clothes," she said.

Parents got the chance to catch a glimpse of the costumes in an afternoon family assembly.

A total of £102.10 was raised, with the money due to be presented to Bobby Magill, the vicar at the Tin Church, during assembly yesterday.