Record number ready for Big Toddle

A record number of youngsters will take small steps around Dudley Zoo and castle for the annual Barnardo's Big Toddle next month after 2,500 signed up.

The sponsored half-mile has been running for more than a decade.

This year it will be on Tuesday, Wednesday and June 12. It continues to be the biggest fundraiser for under-fives in the country and the toddle in Dudley is the biggest held in the Midlands. Last year 2,000 children put their best foot forward to help Birmingham and the Black Country raise £52,000.

Barnardo's fundraiser Pauline Clark said: "The Barnardo's Big Toddle has just snowballed over the years, and the Dudley event is one of the most popular.

"I think it's become so successful because children and nursery groups come along to do the toddle to raise money and also enjoy the entertainment and atmosphere we organise for them.

"It's a great day out with a chance to see all the animals."

In 2007, 400,000 toddlers registered all over the UK, raising £1.4 million.

Since 1995, 1.5 million toddlers have registered for the sponsored half-mile walks, helping to raise close to £7 million for the children's charity's local projects.

This year, Barnardo's is hoping to raise a record £2.1million to go directly towards helping some of the UK's most vulnerable and disadvantaged young children and their families.

If parents and nursery groups can't attend the Barnardo's Big Toddle event at Dudley Zoo, they can still take part by joining an organised event elsewhere.

They can also join a local pre-school, playgroup or nursery organised event or they can organise their own toddle with friends and family.

To find out how to take part, visit the website www. bigtoddle.co.uk or call 0845 270 9900.