Pudsey Bear makes a (Pay)Point in Welwyn Garden City

AS the iconic mascot for the BBC s Children in Need appeal, Pudsey Bear is usually seen out and about in November. But the bear came out of hibernation early to drop into WGC on Monday morning. Pudsey had popped into the

AS the iconic mascot for the BBC's Children in Need appeal, Pudsey Bear is usually seen out and about in November.

But the bear came out of hibernation early to drop into WGC on Monday morning.

Pudsey had popped into the Costcutter store in Bridge Road East to help promote a new way of donating cash.

For this is the first year people can give money at PayPoint outlets.

A spokesman for PayPoint, which is based in Shire Park, WGC, said: "Although donations can be made online, on the phone and at banks, post offices and building societies, this initiative makes it much easier and more convenient for many people who want to donate but, for whatever reason, are unable to do so straight away - and then sometimes forget to do so.

"This is because PayPoint's 22,000 outlets have much longer opening hours than all the other places where donations can be made in cash and are very often much closer to where people live."

He said the Costcutter store was a prime example - in the middle of a large housing estate and open until 10pm each night.

The spokesman added: "There will be no charge for making donations at PayPoints and we are providing the service for free to Children in Need.