A LONG-serving teacher has arranged for one of the country's top comedians to perform at a village primary school near Taunton as a retirement present.

Laura Lexx is putting on a comedy night at Trull Primary School days before teacher Mandy Pearson retires.

Taunton-born Laura, who has appeared on Mock the Week, Mastermind, Pointless, Live at the Apollo and Radio 4, just happens to be Mandy's daughter.

She is giving her time for free to help raise funds towards a £60,000 PTA appeal for new playground equipment at the school.

PTA chairperson Sarah Fitzsimmons said: "Mandy wanted to do something to fundraise for the school as she is retiring this summer.

"So she came to us with the idea of the comedy night, with all profits going to the school.

"Laura is very well known, so we're very lucky to have her here.

"It's obviously a small gig for her, but it's a big event for the school.

"It's a lovely thing to do and we're grateful to Mandy for organising it and to Laura for giving up her time for free."

The event from 7pm to 10pm next Friday (June 30) includes a drinks reception, Laura's comedy routine, a reading from her book Pivot and book signing.

A few tickets for the Laura Lexx comedy night at £10 are still available - to book yours call the school on 01823 333239.