Carlow native Kathryn Thomas puts her best foot forward for Barnardos Big Toddle

Carlow native and television presenter Kathryn Thomas has been announced as ambassador for the 23rd annual Barnardos Big Toddle, with 627 children from the county already signed up to take part in the fundraising campaign.

The Big Toddle sees pre-school aged children across Ireland take part in sponsored walks in creches, communities and their own back gardens, raising funds for Barnardos’ Early Years Services. Since the campaign’s first year, Ireland’s toddlers and their families have raised a combined €4.84 million for the charity.

Barnardos operates a service at its centre on Tullow Road in Carlow town, providing early years and support services to some of the county’s most vulnerable young children.

Thomas, who is a parent herself, said she was “absolutely delighted” to take on the ambassador role. “I know the challenges there are in raising a child. That is why the work that Barnardos does, offering a helping hand, is so crucial,” she said, encouraging creches, pre-schools and families to get involved. “It is such a simple way to help to change a child’s life.” Barnardos Assistant Director of Children’s Services Clodagh Carroll described the Big Toddle as a “much-loved and very special campaign” that channels young children’s natural energy into something meaningful. “Best of all, it is an event where children help other children to reach their full potential,” she said.

Director of Fundraising Mary Gamble said the funds raised each year allow Barnardos to continue supporting pre-school children who may be experiencing additional challenges in their development or home lives. “At Barnardos we believe childhood lasts a lifetime, which is why our Early Years services are so important,” she said.

Creches and families wishing to host a Big Toddle can find more information at www.barnardos.ie/barnardosbigtoddle.