Werewolves, zombies, witches and skeletons are some of the unusual characters you’ll find at Ely College today as they help raise funds for charity.

Ely Standard: Staff in Halloween fancy dressStaff in Halloween fancy dress (Image: Archant)

Sixth form students at the college have put on their spookiest Halloween outfits in aid of Diabetes UK.

They are taking part in spooktacular stories, a paranormal picnic bake sale and a living dead quiz.

The event was organised by the college’s sixth form student union, and is part of its PLEDGES system, which encourages all students to get involved in extra-curricular activities.

Fleur Patten, an English teacher and sixth form student support officer who is a Type 1 diabetic, said: “We intend to support many charities this year but this one was difficult to resist.

Ely Standard: Ely College Sixth Form students dressing diabolicallyEly College Sixth Form students dressing diabolically (Image: Archant)

“There is much in the media about the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, but it isn’t helpful to blame.

“Type 1 is usually developed in teenage years or younger from a trigger which causes the body to attack its own cells and render the pancreas unable to produce insulin.

“We are lucky to have Addenbrooke’s so nearby but it’s not easy for children to manage diabetes in school. We hope our antics today help to raise awareness.”

Laura Nicolajsen, joint chairman of the sixth form student union, added: “We were shocked when we heard one in 16 people in the UK has diabetes and one person is newly diagnosed every two minutes.

“We want to do our part to lower these statistics. We hope that a cure is discovered in our lifetime.”

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Ely-Sixth-Form-dresses-Diabolical-for-Diabetes