PUPILS from Bedford St Thomas's School in Leigh are hoping to raise £200 for their namesake children's charity.

On Valentine's Day they'll cast off their uniforms and wear casual clothes for the day's lessons in support of the Leigh branch of Tommy's baby charity.

Donations from pupils for the non-uniform privilege will be donated to Tommy's, the baby charity "Birth of Hope" Appeal.

Tommy's Leigh branch volunteer Lesley Wardle is delighted by the school's involvement. In November she staged a fund-raising ball at Liverpool Town Hall and raised over £7,500.00 on the night.

Lesley became involved with Tommy's through the premature birth of her daughter, Charlotte.

"She weighed just 2lb 11oz when she was born at 28 weeks, but we are really lucky as she was just small but perfect," said Lesley. "A couple of weeks ago Charlotte was eight and the Leigh branch of Tommy's is going really well."

Lesley is eager to hear from anyone who needs support and advice regarding premature birth, miscarriage or still birth, of if they need advice on having a healthy pregnancy or just for general information on Tommy's.

"I am always there to talk to," she said," and if any businesses or people want to help Tommy's in any way, please get in touch."

Call 08707 70 70 70 (national rate) or 07973 875505.