The sight of Del-Boy and Rodney Trotter running through the streets as Batman and Robin is one of the classic moments in British comedy.

And last month a Norfolk couple experienced their own fancy-dress embarrassment in Norwich, after helping to organise a fundraising night in the city.

Chris and Lesley Maloney, of Beetley, near Dereham, surprised early-morning shoppers when they walked through the city centre dressed as a wartime evacuee and a glamorous lady in 1940s evening wear, complete with imitation fur stole.

The couple had been left stranded in the city overnight after their car was locked in a car park, with their house keys sitting safely in the vehicle.

Mr Maloney said: 'It was a little bit strange, but people took it in good stead. They smiled and carried on with what they were doing.'

The reason for their vintage attire was because Mr Maloney, 41, had organised a 1940s themed swing party at the Assembly House in aid of Help for Heroes.

Mr Maloney had organised similar events during his 16 years as an aircraft technician at RAF Coltishall, and decided to it again.

He said: 'It was a very successful night. Entertainment was provided by the Pavilion Band, an auction was also held during the proceedings with items donated from Go-Ape, the Poppy Line, Norfolk Falconry, the Norfolk Showground, Hands on Sole, Xavier Naverre Dance, the Norfolk Snow Sports Club, Penny Lane computers and Linzers Bakery.

'The Norfolk Military Vehicle Group also kindly supplied a Jeep and staff car from the period.'

He added: 'I'm over the moon with it. Everyone was fantastic on the night and the auction went really well, people were very generous.'

Sponsorship was provided by Douggie Parsons, the CEO of Hawk-Info Tech Ltd, with whom Mr Maloney worked in the RAF.

Extra support was provided from 3 Wheel Ads, Printing.com, Top Hat Fancy Dress, Signs Express and Stefen Dicks photography.

Mr Maloney, who runs 3 Wheel Ads, a pedicab advertising service in Norwich, said: 'The amount raised on the night for Help for Heroes was �2,112, thanks to everybody who attended and also for all the generous support and assistance from the previously mentioned businesses and organisations.'

Are you holding an event for charity? Contact Local Life editor Richard Wood on 01603 772423 or email richard.wood@archant.co.uk