YOUNGSTERS and parents from around Chard, Ilminster and Crewkerne threw on their walking shoes today (Wednesday) in a bid to raise cash for children's charity, Barnardo's.

Around 200 people signed up to take part in the half mile sponsored walk at Cricket St Thomas Wildlife Park near Chard, as part of the Barnardo's Big Toddle.

The sponsored events, which take place throughout the country, are a chance for children under five to get involved and help raise money for underprivileged children.

Gina Williams from Cricket St Thomas, who helped set up the event at the park said: "This is the first year we've held the toddle at the park but it's all gone very well.

"We had around 180 people registered to take part, which is great for a first event."

Last year the charity raised over £1.1 million for underprivileged children, and it is hoped that efforts in Cricket St Thomas will help beat the total this year.

Suzannah Nobbs, from Barnardo's South West regional office, said: "This is one of three organised walks in the south west, and the park is a really great venue.

"We will be talking to people to see what they thought and possibly see about coming back to the park for the event next year."