BEING TOLD you look like a pig would normally be regarded as an insult, but for hundreds of people across east Scotland yesterday it was a cause for celebration.

They were taking part in the first ever Pig Snout Day—the brainchild of Dundee man Jimmy Michie (pictured)—to raise money to help Dreamz 4 U, a charity for sick and disabled children.

It organises outings and other special treats to bring much-needed cheer to their lives.

Jimmy founded the charity after his daughter Kelly was treated for a brain tumour, and it has helped dozens of children to date.

He decided to boost its funds by emulating Comic Relief’s famous Red Nose Day.

The pig snout campaign was launched in January with the help of the Scotland rugby squad, and thousands have been sold at £1 a time.

Yesterday was when buyers were asked to wear their snouts proudly to show their support.

Among those taking part in Dundee were the children at Wonderland nursery in Hilltown and staff at Asda in Kirkton.

Schools, sports clubs and retailers across Tayside, Fife and beyond were also involved.

Tayside firefighters will be helping out today with a ladder-climbing marathon that should see them complete the equivalent of the height of Mount Everest.

A delighted Jimmy said he had been receiving messages all day about events taking place and wanted to thank everyone who was supporting the charity.

True to form, yesterday he was in Elgin where he was preparing to take two children on their own treat.

He said, “People have been getting in touch to say that the day is going really well and wishing us luck.

“I think the reason why we have that support is that where we raise the money is where we do the dream, so people can nominate someone to be helped and then see where their money has gone.”

Jimmy—whose nickname is The Pig from his rugby-playing days—is planning to make Pig Snout Day an annual event.

“Hopefully it will be even bigger next year,” he said.