CHILDREN across Wales helped raise more than £20,000 for Barnardo's during last year's animal-themed Big Toddle.

Children dressed up as tigers, giraffes and other animals to take part in a half mile walk to raise money for the UK's oldest and largest children's charity.

In Barry, nurseries and playgroups helped raised £730 towards the overall total.

The charity is now getting ready for this year's Big Toddle, running from June 19-25, which will have the theme 'colours'.

The Big Toddle, which began as a one-off event in Porthcawl but has grown to become a national fundraising event, is marking its 20th anniversary this year by teaming up with Teletubbies, who are also celebrating their 20th anniversary.

Since 1997, the Big Toddle has raised £14.5 million. The antics of Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po have featured in more than 400 episodes of the TV programme and entertained children in more than 120 countries.

Sarah Crawley, director of Barnardo’s Wales, said: “A huge thank you to everyone who will be taking part in this year’s Big Toddle.

“Last year the event raised more than £20,200 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 and to register to Barnardo’s Big Toddle please visit bigtoddle.org.uk or follow Twitter @BigToddle or on Facebook BigToddle.