THEY may not quite be Olympic athletes yet, but children at a Darwen nursery will be toddling for charity next week.

The youngsters, aged two to four, at Abacus Nursery School are to take part in Foresters Big Toddle for Barnado's, raising money both for their nursery and underprivileged children.

They will negotiate a half-mile course made up of cones, hoops and balance beams, sponsored by family and friends.

Alison Barber, playgroup leader at the nursery, said: "The toddle is about children helping other children.

"It is fantastic that our children can help Barnado's just by taking part in the toddle."

The national event is now in its eighth year, with the Abacus Nursery School taking part in the last six toddles.

Last year a total of £634,000 was raised for Barnado's, with the toddlers at Abacus making £345.

Organisers hope that toddler groups across the country will help raise over £700,000 this year.

The event will take place at the nursery from June 14 to 18.