Big Toddle back at starting line
PORTHCAWL’S promenade was a sea of colour at the weekend when tiny tots took part in the Barnardo’s Big Toddle, raising more than £2,600 for the charity’s work in Wales.
Children and their families wore bright colours and fancy dress as they toddled along the seafront with characters dressed as Teletubbies as part of a national fundraiser.
The Big Toddle is now in its 20th year as a UK-wide event and has raised more than £14m in that time, but it began in Porthcawl as a one off event put on by the town’s Barnardo’s Helper Group.
Liz Singer, one of those original helpers, was back on the start line on Satur- day alongside this year’s organiser, mum-of-two Celyn Astrauskas.
She said: “We had a fantastic response and it was a lovely day. People said they had a lot of fun and I’m already thinking about putting on another toddle next year.”
Sarah Crawley, director of Barnardo’s Cymru, said: “It was lovely to see so many families taking part and really enjoying the day. There was a great atmosphere and some very colourful outfits.
“We are very proud that the first Big Toddle took place in Porthcawl 21 years ago and that all these years later the town and its families are still supporting our work with vulnerable children, young people and families.
“It is events like this that help us make a difference and we hope it will become an annual event in Porthcawl once more.”
Barnardo’s Cymru works with more than 8,000 young people and their families in 88 specialised projects in Wales, including work with children affected by poverty, homelessness, disability, bereavement and abuse.