Latest news with #BigToddle
The Irish Sun
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
‘I can't believe it', cries Louth girl, 8, ‘excited' for Lapland trip after winning Irish Sun & Barnardos colouring comp
YES she Kane! Meet talented Libby Kane, the winner of this year's Irish Sun Barnardos colouring competition. 4 Libbie's family were thrilled with her win Credit: Paul Sharp 4 Q102's Kathryn Thomas and her daughter Grace helped to kick off the competition Credit: Paul Sharp Libby, from Ardee, Co. A thrilled Libby said: 'Oh my God, I can't believe it, I am so excited. Can I tell my friends?' Libby's proud mum Grainne, 44, dad Patrick, 45, and big brother Zach, 14, told of their joy at Libby's big win. Grainne said: 'We are super proud of Libby and her hard work. After receiving the call from READ MORE on Barnardos Colouring queen Libby has previously won This time around her Nanny Rosie sent her on the Irish Sun Barnardos' Big Toddle comp and asked her to give it a go. Grainne said: 'Libby spent lots of time colouring it in across a couple of weeks. "She was with me when we received the call from Alison from Barnardos to let us know Libby had won. Most read in the Irish Sun 'Libby was super excited, as are we all. It's a dream come true.' Now the Kane family are gearing up for the magical Enchanted Escape Sunway package which includes unforgettable activities such as husky sled rides, snowmobiling and reindeer sleigh journeys through the wilderness and of course the highlight - meeting RTE's Louise Duffy calls for support of Barnardos Big Toddle to help raise funds for charity's great work This year's Big Toddle theme is Little Heroes and The winner was selected by Barnardos, Sunway and the Alison Kelly, Head of Events at Barnardos, said: 'We were absolutely blown away by the talent and creativity on display in this year's Big Toddle colouring competition with The Irish Sun and Sunway. 'Such a high standard certainly made our judging very difficult! "Libby's winning picture did stand out to us though with her bright colours, intricate details and sticker embellishments - that was a really sweet touch. MAGICAL MOMENT "We could see how much effort Libby had put into her picture, so it was a perfect match for a prize as special as a trip to meet Santa! 'It's definitely one of the highlights of my year to pick up the phone and tell a child they've won a trip to Lapland. "The excitement in their voice, the squeals - it's a moment of magic for the whole family. 'I'd like to say a huge thank you to the team at The Irish Sun and to our wonderful competition sponsor, Sunway, for their continued support and generosity. "We're so proud to help create memories that will last a lifetime. Because childhood lasts a lifetime.' 'INCREDIBLE TALENT' Irish Sun Editor Fiona Wynne added: 'We were absolutely overwhelmed by the incredible talent on display this year. "However, Libby's entry truly captured our hearts. Her imaginative use of colour and the sheer joy that radiated from her artwork made her stand out. 'It was a beautiful piece that perfectly embodied the spirit of the competition, and she is a very deserving winner.' 4 This year's judges had their work cut out for them picking a winner Credit: PR Handout image 4 Libbie 'can't believe' that she won the competition Credit: Paul Sharp
The Irish Sun
22-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
RTE star Louise Duffy & Virgin Media's Karen Koster among famous faces on Riverdance red carpet to support Barnardos
A NUMBER of famous faces hit the red carpet in support of children's charity Barnardos. 6 Louise Duffy appeared on the red carpet at the Barnardos Riverdance Show Credit: Garrett White - Commissioned by The Sun Dublin 6 Karen Koster and daughter Eve were all smiles in their laid-back looks Credit: Garrett White - Commissioned by The Sun Dublin 6 The Riverdance show teamed up with Barnardos to raise funds and awareness Credit: Photocall Ireland Louise - a well-known ambassador of the charity - was recently joined by a group of toddlers to launch their She looked glamorous attending the Riverdance fundraiser show as she stunned in a printed blazer by designer Dries Van Noten. The radio host completed her look with a beautiful red handbag and earrings. During her jaunt on the red carpet, she was interviewed by young Robert Brady, who was keen to get her thoughts about the fundraiser. READ MORE ON BARNARDOS Also making an appearance was telly star Karen, who was snapped alongside her daughter Eve. She opted for a glamorous but laid-back look, wearing a Many parents were also snapped with their beaming children as they entered the theatre to help raise funds for a great cause. All the profits from the Riverdance 30 - The New Generation performance today will be donated to help the work of Barnardos. Most read in Irish News The show is currently playing this summer until September 7. The New Generation celebrates the show's incredible 30th year milestone, with a special anniversary tour in the The huge production rejuvenates the much-loved original show with new innovative choreography, costumes and state of the art lighting, projection and motion graphics. Family's delight after winning The Irish Sun and Barnardo's 'Big Toddle' art competition for Sunway trip to Lapland It showcases the new generation of exceptional performers - all of whom were not born when the show began 30 years ago. Today's charity show comes on the back of a 12-hour Riverdanceathon that took place in front of the Gaiety Theatre on June 19 to help raise cash for the charity. The amazing event saw some 500 dancers from dance schools across Ireland take part, along with members of the Riverdance cast. 'THRILLED' Commenting on the partnership with Riverdance, the charity's Director of Fundraising, Mary Gamble, said: "Barnardos is thrilled to be the charity partner for Riverdance 2025 – and on such a special year as they celebrate their 30th anniversary." She added: "The funds raised from these events will support Barnardos' work with children and families in our centres, in families' own homes, and in schools across Ireland.' Riverdance CEO Padraic Moyles said: "We are very privileged to be given the opportunity to work with Barnardos. "Throughout this partnership we will endeavour to share our passion for music and dance and in some small way create enjoyable and inclusive occasions for some of the families in Barnardos' community.' 6 Louise Duffy was interviewed on the red carpet by young Robert Brady Credit: Garrett White - Commissioned by The Sun Dublin 6 Saoirse and Aoife Burrett attended the Riverdance Show Credit: Garrett White - Commissioned by The Sun Dublin 6 Anna Kurchenko, Henry Morgan and Peter Morgan also went to the fundraiser Credit: Garrett White - Commissioned by The Sun Dublin
Irish Independent
23-05-2025
- Business
- Irish Independent
See photos as Kerry toddlers take to the road for charity
The school has for over 20 years now been a huge supporter of the work done by Barnardos and has helped to raise an impressive €3,000 to date for the charity. Barnardos' mission is to deliver services and work with families, communities, and our partners to transform the lives of vulnerable children who are affected by adverse childhood experiences. Patricia Quigley, owner and manager of Scallywags Pre-School, had this to say about the event: 'We've been taking part in the Barnardos Big Toddle for more than 20 years and have always found it to be a fun and worthwhile fundraiser. It's all about children helping children. We share the stories of vulnerable children supported by Barnardos with our little ones, create hero capes, and give ourselves superhero names. Teaching children the value of helping others is a lesson that lasts a lifetime.' The Barnardos Big Toddle is designed for crèche and pre-school-aged children, with all funds going toward Barnardos' Early Years services. Since its inception, the Big Toddle has raised an impressive €4.84 million in support of Ireland's most vulnerable young children. Whether you're part of a crèche, a parent, or a childminder, everyone can host your own Big Toddle at any time during May or June by registering at Your support helps ensure that some of Ireland's youngest children receive the best start in life. For more on Barnardos and how to get involved, visit
Irish Independent
23-05-2025
- Business
- Irish Independent
Little Killarney ‘scallywags' get up to good as they take part in Barnardos Big Toddle fundraiser
The school has for over 20 years now been a huge supporter of the work done by Barnardos and has helped to raise an impressive €3,000 to date for the charity. Barnardos' mission is to deliver services and work with families, communities, and our partners to transform the lives of vulnerable children who are affected by adverse childhood experiences. Patricia Quigley, owner and manager of Scallywags Pre-School, had this to say about the event: 'We've been taking part in the Barnardos Big Toddle for more than 20 years and have always found it to be a fun and worthwhile fundraiser. It's all about children helping children. We share the stories of vulnerable children supported by Barnardos with our little ones, create hero capes, and give ourselves superhero names. Teaching children the value of helping others is a lesson that lasts a lifetime.' The Barnardos Big Toddle is designed for crèche and pre-school-aged children, with all funds going toward Barnardos' Early Years services. Since its inception, the Big Toddle has raised an impressive €4.84 million in support of Ireland's most vulnerable young children. Whether you're part of a crèche, a parent, or a childminder, everyone can host your own Big Toddle at any time during May or June by registering at Your support helps ensure that some of Ireland's youngest children receive the best start in life.
The Irish Sun
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Win fantastic family trip to Lapland with Barnardos & The Irish Sun's annual colouring competition
ON your markers, get set . . . GO! It's Toddle time and once again The Irish Sun has teamed up with children's charity Barnardos for our Big Toddle art contest. Barnardos has 8 Download, print and colour this image to be in with the chance to win, see full details below 8 Top Thomas and her daughter Grace launch Big Toddle colouring competition Credit: Paul Sharp 8 Lap it Lapland trip is up for grabs with thanks to Sunway And to ensure all these little fundraisers are entertained afterwards, we are asking all budding artists to download and colour a pic by top illustrator Chris Judge and enter it in our Big Toddle competition. This year's Big Toddle theme is Little Heroes and radio and TV star Kathryn, who has 'Knowing that all funds raised are going directly to Barnardos Early Years Services makes this campaign all the more meaningful. READ MORE IN BARNARDOS 'Smallies from creches all over Ireland walking half a mile to raise awareness of kids their own age less fortunate than themselves is a powerful message.' Kathryn, who is also mum to seven-year-old Ellie, added: 'I'd encourage everyone where they can to support the Barnardos Big Toddle and to get involved in The Irish Sun's Big Toddle colouring competition.' Your child's colouring talent could help make it a Christmas to remember, thanks to our wonderful top prize — A family of four (two adults and two children) will win an MOST READ IN THE IRISH SUN Every moment is thoughtfully planned to create a stress-free, magical holiday. Speaking about The Irish Sun/Barnardos colouring comp, Sunway CEO Mary Denton said: 'We are proud to sponsor this year's competition, a celebration of creativity, imagination, and self-expression.' RTE's Louise Duffy calls for support of Barnardos Big Toddle to help raise funds for charity's great work She added: 'This is our third year doing so and we are so delighted to support the work that Barnardos do throughout Ireland. 'They work so hard and diligently to support children who are vulnerable and their families.' 'Creative competitions like this are a powerful way to engage families and spark conversations, helping to raise vital awareness of the work we do to HOW TO ENTER Download the colouring page image at the top of this article and email us your finished picture by sending a PDF or photo to features@ or post it to: The Irish Sun, Macken House, 39/40 Mayor Street Upper, Dublin 1, D01 C9W8. To accompany the finished picture we would like each child to send us a photo of themselves with their creation. And don't forget to include your child's name, date of birth, address and contact number. The closing date for entries is Saturday, June 7, 2025. Irish Sun Editor Fiona Wynne added: 'It's wonderful to team up with Barnardos and Sunway once again on our most popular and colourful campaign of the year.' EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC Visiting Santa in Lapland is a magical experience unlike any other and the Irish Sun and Sunway can make that happen for you and your family. A family of four - two adults and two children - will win an Enchanted Escape Sunway package and can go and visit Santa and enjoy all the magical Christmas festive fun. Nestled in a snowy wonderland of twinkling forests and cosy log cabins, Sunway brings childhood dreams to life. Lapland creates family memories that last forever. Sunway, a trusted name in Irish travel, offers carefully curated Lapland experiences that bring you right into the heart of the Arctic Circle. From the moment you arrive at Dublin Airport, you enter the magic and joy of a Christmas holiday. Sunway's trip to Lapland is more than just a holiday; it's a collection of treasured moments — a child's wonder at meeting Santa, the thrill of racing through snowy forests, and the peaceful beauty of the polar landscape. It's the perfect blend of adventure, magic, and family bonding, wrapped in the purest white of the Arctic. Sunway's Lapland holiday includes unforgettable activities such as husky sled rides, snowmobiling, and reindeer sleigh journeys through the wilderness. 8 Festive magic with Sunway at Lapland 8 On your and Grace Credit: Paul Sharp 8 Ambassador Louise Duffy and youngsters launch 2025 Big Toddle for Barnardos Credit: Patrick Bolger 8 The Barnardos Big Toddle has raised an incredible €4.84million over the years 8 Sunway's incredible Christmas experiences are available now Of course, the highlight for many is the visit to Santa Claus himself. Children's faces light up as they travel to a secret location to meet Santa in his cosy, traditional cabin, a truly magical experience they will never forget. Sunway have thought of everything from the cosy accommodation to the warm snowsuits and boots for your trip. Every moment is thoughtfully planned to create a stress-free, magical holiday. Sunway has some great Lapland trips for November and December 2025. Sunway has everything done for you – flights, accommodation and fun and you can book now and spread your payments with the Sunway payment plan. Return flights, accommodation, a 20kg baggage allowance, activities and meals as per your itinerary are all included. As are thermal suits and boots, husky, reindeer and snowmobile rides, a festive dinner, Santa's secret hideaway, a private meeting with Santa and so much more. So if you're looking for a truly magical Christmas experience, a visit to see Santa in Lapland is a must. Book now on COMPETITION TERMS & CONDITIONS A FAMILY of four (two adults and two children 12 and under) will win an Enchanted Escape Sunway package and can go and visit Santa to enjoy all the magical Christmas festive fun. The prize includes return flights, accommodation, 20kg baggage allowance, activities as per your itinerary, thermal suit and boots, husky, reindeer and snowmobile rides, a festive dinner, Santa's secret hideaway and a private meeting with Santa. Winners will be departing from Dublin for two nights from November 23, 2025. Prize cannot be exchanged for cash or transferred to 2026. Visit Winner and guests must hold valid travel insurance for the holiday duration. Failure to attend for any reason whatsoever on the travel dates agreed and booked does not entitle the winner to an alternative prize and the prize will be deemed to have been forfeited. The promoter reserves the right to substitute prize of equal value if a prize element becomes unavailable for any reason whatsoever. Holiday is non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash. Holiday must be booked directly with Sunway head office, Marina House, Clarence Street, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin. Any costs incurred additional to the prize package elements listed (e.g. telephone charges, excursions, spa treatments, etc.) will be at the winner's own expense. Any requested or permitted upgrades or changes to the stated holiday prize will be at the winner's own expense. Prizes are as stated and are non-exchangeable and non-transferable. There is no cash alternative to the prizes in whole or in part. The winner will be notified within 14 days after the end of the competition and they need to confirm acceptance of the prize within seven days of having been notified. Competition organisers' decisions are final. The competition is open to children aged ten and under as of June 17, 2025. Barnardos and Sunway will select the winners. By entering, you consent to The Irish Sun publishing in newspaper and online platforms any image(s) of the entrant talking about their submission, submitted in connection with that artwork. Such consent may be withdrawn by a parent or guardian (who may also request deletion of the material) using the competition contact details. Publication of the material will be used for purposes solely relating to the Barnardos Big Toddle. See Barnardos Registered Charity Number 20010027 and CHY6015. For more info on the Barnardos Big Toddle, see
