TODDERS from across the county are invited to join Iggle Piggle and pals in their first fundraising event for seriously ill children in Essex.

Toddle Waddle is taking place on Sunday, October 5, at Hylands Park in Chelmsford. It’s a fun 3k walk around the park with those taking part encouraged to dress up as their favourite characters from TV, film, fairy tales or nursery rhymes and get sponsored for every step they take.

Iggle Piggle will be starting the walk at 11am along with other special guests from popular children’s films. Other activities on the day will include a spot the teddy on the route quiz, arts and crafts corner and name the teddy. A 5k route will also be marked out for those who want to walk a little further.

The event will raise money for Little Havens Hospice which cares for children living with a life-limiting condition by controlling pain and medication, offering respite and care at the end of their lives.

Little Havens Hospice Events Fundraiser, Claire Southgate, said: “Toddle Waddle is a brand new event for us and it is going to be a really fun day out with arts and crafts for older children while little ones can get to meet their favourite TV characters and the whole family can keep fit and active together in the beautiful surroundings of Hylands Park.

“Each week Little Havens Hospice must raise £46,000 to continue making every day count for the babies, children and teenagers, and their families, that we care for.

"We don’t charge a penny for our care and it is only with the kindness of our supporters who take part in our events that we can continue providing this specialist palliative care to youngsters across Essex.”

Entry is £14 for a family, £8 for an adult and child, £6 for an additional adult and £3 for an additional child.

For more information or to sign up for Toddle Waddle visit www.havenshospices.org.uk/toddlewaddle or call Claire on 01702 220312 or email csouthgate@havenshospices.org.uk