NURSERIES and toddlers in Runcorn and Widnes raised £1,648 for Barnardo’s during last summer’s animal themed Big Toddle.

Children dressed up as tigers, elephants and giraffes and took part in a half mile walk to raise money for vulnerable children.

A further £7,402 was raised by tots and their families across Cheshire.

Colours is the theme of this year’s Big Toddle from June 19-25.

Since 1997, the event has raised £14.5 million.

Barnardo’s is marking its 20th anniversary this year by teaming up with Teletubbies, which is also celebrating its 20th anniversary.

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.

Lynn Perry, director for Barnardo’s in the north west said: “The Big Toddle is a great opportunity for little ones to enjoy themselves and help raise vital funds.

“Last year the event raised almost £600,000 which is helping to transform the lives of some of the most vulnerable children in this region.”

The Big Toddle is the UK’s biggest fundraising event for children under the age of five.

Hundreds of thousands of children take part every year covering enough miles to toddle around the world two and a half times.

To register visit bigtoddle.org.uk.