YOU would be forgiven for thinking you were seeing things on Friday when a bear could be spotted dancing about outside Bicester Fire Station.

Thankfully it was not an emergency but the Bicester firefighters' annual Children in Need fundraiser with Pudsey the Bear.

Pudsey was joined by a host of firefighters who gave up their day to pound the streets of Bicester and drum up support while raising thousands of pounds.

When they were not fighting fires the team were outside the fire station, on Queen's Avenue, collection coins from the public.

People were also able to head along and have a look round one of the fire engines out on display.

Pudsey, taking time out of his busy collections, also took a moment to join a few of the firefighters who were visiting local schools.

The Children in Need mascot helped spread joy and rally support among children at Southwold Primary School, Glory Farm Primary, Childfirst nursery and Brookside Primary in Bicester.

The team also popped into Bicester Tesco where staff donated snacks to keep the group going during their collections.

The final total raised by the firefighters – as counted up by volunteers from the staff at HSBC – was £6,475.23.

Bicester Fire Service posted its thanks online, it said: "An amazing amount raised by everyone who came and supported us.

"Thank you from everyone!

"Well done to all our colleagues across the country out there too collecting. Thank you all so much on behalf of BBC Children in Need."

They also gave a special shout out to staff at Tesco, HSBC and friends, family and colleagues for helping.

In response, scores of people replied on Facebook to say what a great event it was. One commenter said: "Well done guys, you've done yourself proud once again."

Another resident added: "That's fantastic, well done to all involved. You made my little girl's night seeing Pudsey."