AS CHILDREN in Need fast approaches, staff at the Evening Star offices are preparing for a day with a difference.For one day only the paper's editor Nigel Pickover will be handing the reins to the charity's mascot Pudsey bear - who will take over the running of the paper on Friday.

AS CHILDREN in Need fast approaches, staff at the Evening Star offices are preparing for a day with a difference.

For one day only the paper's editor Nigel Pickover will be handing the reins to the charity's mascot Pudsey bear - who will take over the running of the paper on Friday.

It will be an early start for Pudsey, as he will be expected to arrive at the Lower Brook Street office by 6am accompanied by his Radio Suffolk friends Mark Murphy, Steve Martin and Kate Arkell.

He will then get his paws into every area of the paper, from sending reporters out on jobs to debating the forthcoming derby match with our sports writers, Pudsey will be making sure we turn out the best possible paper on Children in Need day as well as persuading staff throughout the building to part with their pennies.

Mr Pickover said: “Pudsey has a bear-faced cheek invading our newsroom and taking over the Evening Star but there are those who say he will do a terrific job and we wish him all the very best in this superb cause.”

You can hear all about Pudsey's adventures live on Radio Suffolk throughout the morning, where presenter Mark Murphy will be helping him to interview various members of staff.

Mr Murphy will also be broadcasting his breakfast show from the corner of the newsroom in order to keep an eye on the mischievous bear.

He said: “Pudsey has done all sorts of things in the past, but this will be the first time he has edited a newspaper.

“He will be making important decisions such as deciding what goes on the front page and it will be very interesting to see what sort of stories he chooses.

"He will also be eager to hear the stories about what the people of Suffolk are doing to raise money for Children in Need. He tells me he's really looking forward to it."

Pudsey can not talk and has to be led by the arm as he can not see very well but Mr Murphy said he is sure he would love to hear from Star readers.

He said: “Star readers are welcome to ring him up, and he'll provide a listening ear, but I have to admit they won't get much response back."

Don't forget to pick up a copy of the Evening Star on Friday to read all about Pudsey's adventures - 2p from every copy sold will be donated to Children in Need.

Let us know about your Children in Need charity events by calling The Evening Star news desk on 01473 324788.