‘SHIVER ME TIMBERS’ was the cry from children and their parents taking part in a sponsored toddle for the Barnardo’s children’s charity.

Youngsters aged two to five from Great Dunmow’s Puffin Pre-School group donned hats, swords and the odd eye-patch to take part in a pirate-themed walk to raise cash on Thursday (June 17).

Manager and organiser Toni Fuller said that the day exceeded all expectations. “We were hoping to raise about �100 at first,” she said. “But the turn out was really amazing and we hope to have much more than that now.”

As well as the half hour town centre circuit, taking in Dunmow High Street, the Doctors Pond and Talberds Ley, the group held an outdoor tea and cake sale to raise funds.

Mrs Fuller added: “The children got plenty of sponsorship for the walk, but we thought to make the day that extra bit special, and a little longer, we would have a picnic outside. The money we raise from the cake sale will be donated to our own group.”

The Puffin Pre-School is located around the back of Foakes Hall and spaces for next term, starting in September, are filling up fast. To find out more, call 07712 858 878 or e-mail puffins2009@hotmail.com.

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