A GROUP of pole-dancers donned their hotpants to carry out a 12-hour charity Pole-athon at the weekend.

The event, hosted by Dance Inspires, was held at Baby Love in Oxford from 10am until 10pm on Saturday.

Vicky Ford, manager of Dance Inspires, said: "The day has been a complete success. I'm very proud of the effort the girls have put in."

Twenty-four girls took part, each performing five-minute routines throughout the day, making the total number of dances a 144.

Donations topped their £1,500 target and the girls hope they may have collected as much as £2,000.

The proceeds will be donated to Oxford-based Helen and Douglas House hospices, which provide support and care for terminally ill children and their families.

Nikki Barber, hospices spokesman, said: "People raise funds for us in all sorts of ways, but this idea is poles apart. Twelve hours is a real test of fitness and we thank the girls for all their hard work."

Donations are still being taken at www.justgiving.com/pole-athon For more details on Dance Inspires visit www.danceinspires.co.uk or call 07706 708097.