THERE were no red noses at Swindon's Job Centre. But around 50 employees at the Job Centre in Clarence Street were allowed to dress in red and paid £1 for the privilege.

Ruth Remington, Job Centre manager, said: "We would love to join in the fun more. But we have to maintain a professional appearance because some of our customers find themselves in distressing circumstances and it would not be always be appropriate to speak to someone wearing a red nose."

Around 100 staff at the social security offices in Princes Street were also invited to wear smart red clothes.

Mrs Remington added: "There were lots of red noses on people's desks and staff members have arranged more exciting events in their spare time."