PUPILS at a Portishead school were caught with their trousers down when a fire alarm interrupted preparations for their Christmas production.

PUPILS at a Portishead school were caught with their trousers down when a fire alarm interrupted preparations for their Christmas production.

Children at St Barnabas Primary School were changing in to costumes for their performance of 'Rocking Around the Christmas Tree' when the fire bell rang, sending them all out in to the playground for fire drill.

Alarmed parents arriving to watch the show were greeted by two fire engines and a playground full of half dressed children, many wrapped in coats and blankets.

It didn't take long for the fire officers to declare the school safe and despite the drama the show still went on, albeit 30 minutes later than expected.

School administrator, Lesley Hibberd, said: "It would seem that an electrical fault triggered the fire alarm but obviously we had to ensure the school was safe before anyone could re-enter.

"We were very impressed with the response from the fire service, two fire engines arrived within five minutes of our call which is very reassuring."

Mother-of-four, Donna Addy, said "The drama didn't seem to upset the children at all, they went on to present a brilliant show."

The St Barnabas School Christmas market followed the afternoon performance and raised in excess of £700 for the school.