ONE of the largest fundraising events in the UK, which gives children a chance to raise big money for charity, was a success in Colchester.

About 35 youngsters and 20 parents took part in the Barnardo’s Big Toddle at Willow Brook Primary School and Nursery, in Barnardiston Road, Colchester, yesterday.

The event raised money for the Barnardo’s Pyramid Family Support centre, which is run at the school to give parents help and advice on a variety of issues such as housing and benefits.

Jenni Tinsley-Hall, support worker from the centre, said: “Due to the bad weather, we did the toddle in the main hall. “We did it in a variety of styles: forwards and backwards, and on one leg, to keep children interested.

“The children very much enjoyed watching their mums and dads take part.”

The Big Toddle is the largest event in the UK for the under 5s and has helped to raise more than £2million nationally.