Council staff manned the phones on Friday to help raise £70,000 for Comic Relief.

More than 100 employees gave up their time to take donations, receiving more than 2,500 over five hours.

One particularly charitable caller even chipped in £5,000.

Town-centre pubs The Green Dragon and The Spread Eagle sponsored the event.

Councillor Sara Bashford, cabinet member for corporate and voluntary services, said: “This was a fantastic effort by the council’s staff who should be proud of the huge amount of money they have raised for good causes.

“It was a busy evening for all but a thoroughly enjoyable one too. Well done to everyone who took part.”