CHILDREN at the Montessori Pre-school Nursery, in Middlesbrough, received a roar of approval from Cedric the Dragon when he visited them yesterday.

The scaly creature was there on behalf of the children's charity NCH to thank youngsters who took part in a sponsored puzzle.

Children aged between three and five raised almost £550 for the charity, which will be used to help disadvantaged local children.

Headteacher Jean Boyd said: "It was the most money that we have ever raised and the children thoroughly enjoyed themselves.