Fun filled The Meadows shopping centre in Chelmsford at the weekend when hundreds of youngsters and their families joined in the Tumble Tots birthday party and Sunday Funday.

The event, in aid of the charity BLISS - Baby Life Support Systems - celebrated the 20th birthday of the activity group, Tumble Tots.

Attractions included an appearance by the popular cuddly character, Tumble Tot, who arrived in an open top car and appeared on the Essex Chronicle/Brentwood Gazette roadshow stage.

Other attractions were entertainment from juggler, David Kent and magician, Nick the Trick, face painting and goodie bags with giveaways, vouchers and prizes .

A television set was won by Charlotte Page from Maldon.

Donations were invited for the goodie bags, to raise funds for BLISS.

More than 60 local companies and groups supported the event, including the Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre, the Odeon cinema, Megabowl and Essex Catering Services, who provided a super birthday cake.

Money raised will be combined with the funds brought in for BLISS by the recent charity week held at Tumble Tots centres.

Malcolm Tilsed, manager of The Meadows shopping centre, said: "It was a superb event, a real family day and there were lots of happy smiling faces."

Tumble Tot, the popular cuddly character, appearing on the Essex Chronicle/Brentwood Gazette roadshow stage.

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