A SOMERSET youngster has set herself the challenge of dressing up as a different character each day to raise money for charity - raising a staggering amount in the process.

Eight-year-old Pearl Parkin has recreated the looks of Billie Eilish, David Bowie, Frida Kahlo, Lady Gaga and even Jackie Weaver of Handforth Parish Council fame!

Each outfit is created with materials found around her home in Bath, Somerset, with the help of her 10-year-old brother, Elliot.

Pearl started the challenge to keep herself entertained during the Covid-19 lockdown, and has vowed to continue each day until her school reopens.

She has raised almost £7,000 for Save the Children so far, having aimed to reach £1,000 in time for her return to the classroom on March 8.

Somerset County Gazette:

TELEPHONE: Pearl's Lady Gaga outfit

“I want to raise money for children around the world who might need help right now because of Covid, or other reasons,” Pearl said.

“I find it really upsetting that some children, like refugees, don’t have the same as me.

“I decided to dress up each day because I love making costumes with my family.

“My favourite outfit so far has probably been Lady Gaga from her Telephone video.

“Next, I’d like to try dressing up as Ariane Grande, Princess Leia or maybe someone from Little Mix.

“My advice to adults struggling to make an effort with their clothes during lockdown is to just give dressing up a try, because it does make you feel really happy.”

Somerset County Gazette:

SERIOUS: Pearl as Frida Kahlo

Pearl has been sharing her creations on an Instagram page, called pearldressingup.

Her first outfit was a French girl, followed by an explorer and then Kate Bush.

She then emulated Frida Kahlo, John Lennon, Anne-Marie, her grandfather, Billie Eilish and Severus Snape from Harry Potter.

Other outfits included the Queen (complete with a toy dog), Bjork, Lady Gaga, Rey Skywalker, David Bowie, Lisa Simpson and the Girl With A Pearl Earring.

Pearl also recreated the looks of Jackie Weaver, of Handforth Parish Council, Taylor Swift, Greta Thunberg, the Mona Lisa, Elton John, American Gothic and Bill & Ted.

Her brother Elliot said: “The Lady Gaga headpiece is completely made out of paper, except some tin foil used for the telephone dial.

“For the stick that Rey Skywalker uses, it’s actually an old pinata stick with the fabric ripped off and then some different old fabric glued on.

“The Bjork costume we completely made out of paper.”

Somerset County Gazette:

ARTISTIC: Pearl dressed as the Girl with a Pearl Earring

Tammy Hoskins, community fundraising and engagement manager for Save the Children, said: “We are so grateful for the support of Pearl and her family – the costumes are so fun and have really brought a smile to our faces.

“Save the Children’s work is made possible by inspiring children like Pearl and their amazing commitment to make the world a better place for other children.”

Pearl’s fundraising page can be found here.