Toddlers from across Peterborough joined forces with the animated character Shrek at Ferry Meadows to generate funds for the children's charity Barnardo's.

The Big Toddle was one of hundreds taking place throughout Britain, in a bid raise more than £2 million for the worthy cause.

The charity works with about 115,000 children, young people and their families through specialised projects in communities across the UK.

Barnardo's community fund-raiser Audrey Barnett said: "The Big Toddle was the first organised in Peterborough. We've had children who have been sponsored to walk round Ferry Meadows.

"All over the UK, children have been raising money. Last year, we managed £1.7 million, but, hopefully, we can break that and get close to £2.1 million.

"We work with children who are suffering poverty and abuse. We stand up for them because we believe in them.

"It's been fantastic. We've had nursery nurse students from Peterborough Regional College helping us out on the route. The support has been wonderful.

The Big Toddle team's Cynthia Catchpole said: "It's great to see so many children out walking and raising money for other children who are less fortunate than themselves."As well as fund-raising, these events are great to make young children, parents and carers aware that they can get out and do something to improve other people's chances."

Charli Ward (21) from Peterborough completed the walk with her 17-month-old daughter, Elizabeth.

She said: "I'd heard about the Big Toddle through some of the girls from the college, and thought it sounded like a really nice idea."