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 Television presenter Melinda Messenger has lent her support to the Big
Toddle, a sponsored half-mile walk for the under fives which aims to raise at
least £1.5 million for the children's charity Barnardo's.
The glamorous mother-of-three joined actresses Fay Ripley and Lorraine
Ashbourne and health and fitness expert Joanna Hall, along with parents and
their toddlers, to launch the annual fundraiser on Tuesday at Kenwood House in
north London.
More than 400,000 people have already put their names down for Big Toddle
events taking place around the UK this summer.
Barnardo's ambassador and model Laura Bailey said: "Toddles are always a fun
day out for the family, with picnics, fancy dress and children's
entertainment.
"I'm keen to get my son involved as I think it is important for him to be
aware that there are children in the UK who are much less fortunate than
him.
"I'm looking forward to attending the Barnardo's Ealing Big Toddle on June
28."
Ms Hall, who has written books on fitness and weight loss, said: "I am
thrilled to be involved with the Barnardo's Big Toddle. I am a firm believer
that if children learn to enjoy exercise at an early age they will be healthier,
fitter individuals in later life.
"What a great way to promote a positive outlook towards walking, exercising
and playing outdoors, by getting sponsored and praised to toddle around their
local park."
Barnardo's chief executive, Martin Narey, said: "The Barnardo's Big Toddle is
a fun way for children to help other children. Barnardo's are proud to work with
110,000 vulnerable children and young people throughout the UK.
"The harsh reality is that in one of the richest countries in the world,
thousands of children across the UK are homeless, living in care or suffering
abuse and discrimination.
"We want a record number of children and groups to have some serious fun
during the Barnardo's Big Toddle, raising vital funds and changing young lives
forever."
To find out how to take part in the 2007 Barnardo's Big Toddle, supported by
Lloyds TSB, visit the website www.bigtoddle.co.uk or call 0845 270 9900.
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