CHILDREN across the region are invited to take part in this year's Barnardo's Big Toddle to support the charity's work with vulnerable youngsters across the UK.

Last year's annual sponsored walk for under 5s raised more than £265,000.

Parents, playgroups, childminders and nurseries can now register to take part in this year's event, which is being run in partnership with the CBeebies TV show Teletubbies.

This year the theme is nature, with opportunities to dress up as animals, insects, or flowers.

People are invited to organise their own sponsored walks throughout the year and can access exclusive nature-themed early years learning resources and downloads.

Barnardo’s regional director Hugh Sherriffe said: “The Big Toddle is a great opportunity for under-5s to have lots of fun with their friends and families while raising money to help disadvantaged children.

“The nature theme means they can be really imaginative with fancy-dress ideas and Barnardo’s has some great resources to help everyone taking part.”

To register for your Big Toddle pack, with information and fundraising ideas, visit www.bigtoddle.co.uk or call 0800 008 7005.