Wildlife park staff are bracing themselves for a huge invasion.

But the stampede of animals they are hoping will raise through the gates is nothing to cause concern.

The Lake District Wildlife Park, at Bassenthwaite, near Keswick, is welcoming a whole host of animal characters next Tuesday.

It is hosting a leg of The Big Toddle, organised by children's charity Barnardo's, in what's a milestone year for them.

That means encouraging under-fives to come dressed in their favourite animal fancy dress, have a wander and raise money for the cause.

Fran Foster, from the park, has been encouraging as many local nurseries, play groups and schools as possible to register.

She has also enlisted the help of park mascot Julian the Lemur, who has started training for the event himself.

"We’re very proud to be able to help Barnardo’s on their 150th anniversary," said Fran.

"They work directly with more than 240,000 children, young people and families every year. We are a family attraction so it’s right that we should get involved. Little steps do make a big difference.

“The event is all about helping children by taking part in short sponsored walks.

"It is a fun activity for toddlers, a great way for new starters to bond, an educational day out for children, and a brilliant way for little ones to help transform the lives of the UK’s most vulnerable children."

The park's Toddle on the Wild Side, will leave from the Green Barn and take in a string of favourites up to the the safari jeep viewpoint, where medals will be awarded to those who have taken part.

"We’re encouraging people to come early and stay all day, making the most of their visit and having chance to see the real wildlife on the park," added Fran.

Gates at the Lake District Wildlife Park open at 10am with registration until 10.30am. Julian the Lemur will lead a warm up before the toddle walk begins at 11am.

People can preregister online at www.bigtoddle.co.uk

Bosses at the park - who this week welcomed a new zebra foal to their herd - are hoping for strong support.

Manager Richard Robinson said: "The Big Toddle is a great way to get everyone from the local community together to raise money for a fantastic cause.
"We’re looking forward to seeing some amazing costumes and helping Barnardo’s raise as much money as possible, so if you haven’t registered, now’s the time to do it."

Barnardo's are grateful for the support also, with similar events taking place across the country.

Chief executive Javed Khan has said in a message to those taking part: "Your generosity will help us continue to support the most disadvantaged children in the UK. Since the Big Toddle started in 1997, Barnardo’s has raised more than £14m."