Children’s charity Barnardo’s has announced the theme of this year’s Big Toddle.

Thousands of under-fives took part in last year’s annual sponsored walks and raised more than £231,000 to support vulnerable children and young people across the UK.

Big Toddle Week returns with an animal theme from June 24 to 30. Parents, carers, playgroups and nurseries are invited to arrange their own local events.

Barnardo’s chief executive Javed Khan said: ’The Big Toddle is a great opportunity for under-5s to have fun with their friends and families. We are really grateful for everyone taking part as the sponsorship money helps our vital services continue to support hundreds of thousands of vulnerable children, young people, parents and carers.’

Those who register by May 20 will receive a Big Toddle pack featuring a fundraising guide, sponsorship forms, certificates, medals, stickers, posters and animal-themed learning resources.

Visit www.bigtoddle.org.uk or call 0800 008 7005.