Toddlers raise thousands as big walk returns

Children dressed up as animals such as tigers and giraffes and took part in a half-mile walk to raise £2,576.30 for Barnardo’s, the UK’s oldest and largest children’s charity, during last summer’s animal-themed Big Toddle.

Nurseries and parents are now signing up to take part in this year’s Big Toddle, which runs from June 19-25 and has the theme of ‘colours’.

The Big Toddle is marking its 20th anniversary this year by teaming up with Teletubbies, which is also celebrating its 20th anniversary. Since 1997, the Big Toddle has raised £14.5m.

The antics of Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po have featured in more than 400 episodes of the popular TV programme and entertained children in more than 120 countries.

Barnardo’s south-east and anglia regional director Jonathan Whalley said: ‘A huge thank you to everyone who will be taking part in this year’s Big Toddle.

‘Last year the event raised almost £600,000 in total, which is helping to transform the lives of the most vulnerable children in the UK.

‘I am excited Barnardo’s has teamed up with the Teletubbies, some of the most popular characters in TV history, for this year’s event.

‘Both will be celebrating their 20th anniversary, so it promises to be a fantastic party.’

To find out more, go to bigtoddle.org.uk.