PIRATES, pie-throwers, firemen and birds of prey helped a Callington store raise more than £500 for charity.

Tesco staff dressed up as Disney characters and threw cream pies at managers as part of a nationwide fundraising day on behalf of the Alzheimer's Society, Tesco charity of the year.

Among the other attractions were a fire engine from Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service and owls from birds of prey charity Ancient Art Falconry, who gave half their takings from their 'Stroke An Owl For A Pound' display to the cause.

Sharon Bindon, of Ancient Art Falconry, said: 'We would like to thank Tesco for asking us to be part of their fundraising event and are pleased that we have been able to raise money for two good causes. Ancient Art Falconry would also like to thank all the generous public for giving their money because if it wasn't for them this would not have been possible.'

Mark Smith from Callington Fire Station said: 'We are happy to support Tesco's in this very worthy cause – certainly we had a very busy afternoon.'

The firefighters will be back at Tesco with one of their engines on New Year's Eve to raise money to help the Chernobyl children.

Store manager Gary Wills said: 'It's been a fantastic success. Thanks to our very generous customers, we have raised over £500 today towards the Alzheimer's Society — and had a lot of fun doing it.'

Picture by Paul?Hamlyn