DENNIS THE Menace and Gnasher have teamed up with Perth and Kinross toddlers in training for a major fund-raising event.

Dennis, from the Beano comic, and his faithful Abyssinian wire-haired tripe hound decided to have fun and get fit when they joined the youngsters to promote the Foresters Big Toddle for Barnardo’s.

Dennis and Gnasher have been visiting toddlers around Scotland and are encouraging children in Perth and Kinross—including those in Blairgowrie, Aberfeldy, Pitlochry, Bridge of Earn, Coupar Angus, Crieff and Auchterarder—to sign up for the toddle.

Foresters Big Toddle is set to take place throughout June and all pre-schools, play groups and nurseries can organise their own sponsored half-mile walk at a time and place to suit them.

All the cash raised will be spent on helping disadvantaged children and community groups in Scotland.

“We are looking for a record number of children, parents and groups to register for Foresters Big Toddle and there’s still time to join the fun,” Barnardo’s Scotland toddle co-ordinator, Jennifer Craik, said.

“This is the toddle’s eighth year and we hope to break all our previous records and raise £1 million for Barnardo’s.

“The toddle can be as easy and flexible as you like—around the park, in the playground, in fancy dress or as part of a great day out with a picnic.

“The important thing is that children have fun, get some exercise and raise funds and awareness for disadvantaged children,” she said.

“We want all the boys and girls across Scotland to join in the fun by toddling for Barnardo’s. It is not too late to sign up.”

All the money raised by the toddles in Scotland stays in Scotland and goes toward Barnardo’s services, such as the Hopscotch in Perth and Kinross, which supports children and young people who have been affected by alcohol misuse in the family.

The toddles are supported by Foresters, the financial services group. Peter Robinson is the company’s UK chief executive.

He said, “The toddles for young children are a great way to raise money for Barnardo’s and also local community groups who keep 25% of funds raised for organising an event.”

People can register by visiting the websites www.barnardos.org.uk/ bigtoddle or www.foresters. co.uk.

They can also Email big.toddle@barnardos. co.uk or phone Jennifer Craik on 0131 314 6645.

All who register will receive an event pack of badges, hats and certificates.