WHEN pupils at a Southampton school were told there were no major events planned for Comic Relief, they thought it must have been just a joke.

For years pupils at Cantell School have taken part in crazy hair competitions, sporting events and paid to wear their own choice of clothes for a day to raise money to help underprivileged people in the UK and Africa.

But when head Ruth Johnson said it would be school uniform as usual on tomorrow's Red Nose Day, it was no laughing matter.

Staff have chosen not to hold any red nose fundraising events, because other activities have been organised for the tsunami appeal.

Pupils were left disappointed that all they can do this year is wear their red noses.

However, a spokesman for the school in Violet Road, Bassett, said: "Throughout the spring term Cantell School has been tirelessly fund-raising in aid of the tsunami appeal. In total, more than £3,000 has been raised.

"A second non-school uniform day is planned for March 23, when more funds will be generated for the Disasters Emergency Committee.

"Pupils are being given a chance to take part in Comic Relief on Friday by wearing red noses.

"The school has decided to keep the day as simple as possible because of the emphasis that has already been put on other good causes this year.

"We do support Red Nose Day and are proud that our pupils are so passionate about this very worthy cause."

A spokesman for Comic Relief said: "The whole theme for this year is just do something. Even if they are just wearing noses they are still fundraising for us.

"No matter how big or small, we really appreciate the school getting involved."