THERE was an animal theme among toddlers and their childminders during a sponsored toddle in Stockton.

Twelve members of the Thornaby and Ingleby Barwick Childminding Group and 40 of the children they look after donned animal-themed fancy dress costumes for a Barnados Big Toddle around Preston Park.

The event was particularly poignant as it was the first time the annual event had taken part without group member Yvonne Sykes, from Ingleby Barwick, who died from leukaemia last month.

There was a release of red balloons – her favourite colour – in her memory.

A group spokeswoman said: “The balloon release for our friend Yvonne was quite emotional.

“She was an inspirational member of our group and will be greatly missed by us all.

“It was a lovely sunny day and all the children had a great time.

“We got lots of lovely comments from people who saw us toddling round the park.

“The childminders were dressed up and the children had some fantastic costumes.”

The sponsorship has yet to be confirmed but members hope to beat last year’s total of £423.