PUDSEY Bear visited Richmond Castle this week to see the venue for the BBC's regional Children in Need celebrations.

Live broadcasts will go out from the castle for about ten minutes in each hour right through the evening of the national charity appeal on November 17.

Visitors will be treated to a medieval tournament for school children, a parade by the Gurkha regiment, a motorcycle stunt display, live music and battle re-enactments.

The celebrations start at 6.30 and go on until about midnight with the aim of raising as much as possible for the appeal.

Pudsey, the Children in Need mascot, was at the castle on Tuesday, along with BBC Look North presenter Wendy Gibson who, with colleague John Lawrence, fronts the regional event.

Mr Jim Knight, one of the organisers, said: "We chose Richmond Castle because it is such a fantastic location and, when we light it for the event, it will look even more spectacular."

A hundred children from primary schools throughout Richmondshire are set to take part in games and races with a medieval theme.

Mrs Michelle Clough, Richmondshire sports development officer, who is organising the schools tournament, said: "I have written to every primary school in the district and the first ten to respond will have the chance to send a team of children from the top year. There will be prizes for the winners and a lot of fun for everyone."

Mr William Hague, Tory leader and MP for Richmond, is also due to attend and organisers hope to persuade him to join in a 1980-style glam rock session. "This year's event is the 21st Children in Need and we are going back to 1980 for part of the celebration," said Mr Knight.

The town's Green Howards regimental museum is providing the legendary Richmond drummer boy, in the shape of Richmond lower school pupil Nathan Wilkie, aged 11, for the event. He is joined by two soldiers from Catterick Garrison in 18th century dress.

A giant screen will ensure visitors to the castle's event can see the national broadcast throughout the evening.

Coun John Harris, mayor of Richmond, said: "We very much wish Children in Need every success and we hope Richmond helps make a major contribution."

People fundraising before November 17 may pledge their cheques at the castle with the chance to appear on live TV. Fundraising information packs are available from the BBC on 0191 232 1313.