More than a thousand chocolate eggs are to bring happy smiles to children at three Dorset schools.

The Easter eggs, donated by Variety The Children’s Charity, will be distributed at the end of term to lucky pupils at Beaucroft Foundation School in Wimborne, Bethany Junior School in Boscombe and Linwood School in Bournemouth.

Variety has also provided a series of Zoom entertainment shows for the children with tricks from juggler Pete Matthews, who lives in Parley, and magic from Krazy Kev with his rabbit.

Frances Cornelius, chairman of Variety Wessex said, “A huge thank you to Shan and the Bournemouth Boys Club, Alison and David and to Lennie and Lorraine Segal. What an incredible effort to source 1,020 chocolate eggs. Thank you too Pete Matthews and Krazy Kev who have put on such marvellous shows for children of all ages.”

Joe Barnett, co-headteacher at Beaucroft said, “Each Friday we have been lucky to be entertained alternately by Krazy Kev and Pete the juggler. Children and staff look forward to it every week and it is a highlight for everyone. They appeal to all ages and both entertainers are highly skilled at engaging with their audience. During lockdown 30 per cent of our children were at home receiving virtual support. Friday entertainments were an incredible opportunity to connect those at school and home and participate and enjoy a shared experience.”