Dozens of knitted characters from the weird to the wonderful lined up for judging yesterday (Saturday) as Hilgay's first Woolly Wall fund-raiser reached its climax.

The unusual competition was organised by staff at Dents butchers to raise money for the Norfolk Hospice, Tapping House, based in Heacham.

Nearly 100 knitted friends were displayed on the railings outside the shop, in Stocks Hill, and entrants had clearly let their imaginations run wild.

There were the usual bears and bunnies plus a host of well-known characters such as footballer Grant Holt, Bill and Ben, Noddy, and Father Christmas.

Some villagers even came face-to-face with themselves, with woolly representations of staff from the Rose and Crown pub, Scarletts salon and the butchers also in the mix.

'It's been great fun and we definitely want to do it again next year,' said butcher Ali Dent.

Judging on the day were Joyce Tomkins, a keen knitter, and local GP Shona Lidgey.

'Everyone has done so well,' said Dr Lidgey. 'We were amazed.'

First place went to Chrissy Hickling for her colourful town crier, which took about four days to create, while Sally Morley's scarecrow came second.

About �250 has been raised so far and most of the toys are now available to buy at the butchers.

Mr Dent now hopes to organise an Man Vs Food-style challenge and would like to hear from anyone brave enough to tackle a mammoth Hilgay burger.

Call 01366 387686 for more details.