AROUND 20 toddlers and teens braved the winter chill in just their pyjamas at the weekend to take part in a sponsored walk.

Children as young as two completed several laps of the cricket pitch in Poole Park on Saturday to raise funds for Camp Amazing, which helps local families with disabled children. “Although it was very cold, the rain clouds stayed away and smiles were seen from all around,” said founder Claire Chissell, a mother of five from Poole.

“Afterwards all the children were presented with a medal and certificate of thanks and warmed up with mugs of hot chocolate.”

The sponsored walk looks set to raise more than £600 including a donation from a kind-hearted supporter in Thailand.

Stuart Evans who heard about the event through a friend, raised nearly £300 with a 10k sponsored walk on this treadmill.

“We can’t thank the children and families enough for braving the cold and everyone who donated including Stuart, who we have never even met,” Claire added. “We were very touched by his support!”

Claire whose youngest child Tommy suffers with a life-threatening genetic disorder, was inspired to set up Camp Amazing to raise funds and awareness for families with disabled children.

There will also be a summer camp at Holton Lee in Poole from July 27 to 29 next year.

A Halloween fun night was held on Saturday October 27 and raised £395.04, which will be divided between Camp Amazing and Poole Hospital’s children’s ward.

Camp Amazing is now planning a Christmas family party with a disco and a chance to meet Santa on Sunday December 2 at Champs at Poole Stadium from 1pm until 7pm.

Tickets for the event cost £3 per person and must be bought by November 28.

For more information contact claire@campamazing .co.uk.