Excitement is reaching fever pitch for Ted’s Big Day Out – the official Kentish Express charity day being staged on Wednesday, June 10.

Youngsters will bring their teddy bears to school on the day or put on funky footwear to raise money for two exceptional charities. It costs only £1 to join in the fun and the money will go towards training guide dog puppies and improving road safety for children.

Five participating schools received a special visit from guide dogs Milo and Chloe as well as KM Walk to School mascot Buster Bug to find out how their preparations were going for Ted’s Big Day Out.

The pupils from Bethersden Primary, Furley Park Primary, East Stour Primary, Woodchurch CE Primary and John Mayne CE Primary were thrilled to meet Milo, Chloe and Buster and find out more about the guide dogs charity.

Susie New, schools ambassador for Guide Dogs for the Blind, said: “Visiting the schools with the dogs gives the children a first-hand opportunity to see how their fundraising moves on to provide a better quality of life for blind or partially sighted people."

Kelly Ridgway of Bethersden Primary said the school was proud to take part in the charity day event.

She said: “It is something that is close to our hearts and it could potentially benefit some of our students in the future. Many of the children have dogs and are passionate about animals.

“The investment in guide dog training is life changing, a truly remarkable journey for an individual and we are really pleased to be contributing towards the charity.”

Annie Smith of Furley Park Primary added: “The children loved the stories of how the dogs have helped people and wanted to help the charity. Ted’s Big Day out is a great way to have fun and raise money at the same time.”

Companies, clubs, community organisations and individuals are also invited to get in on the action. Suggested activities include a welly throwing competition, silly socks contest or cake sale but participants are being encouraged to come up with their own ideas.

Event organiser Dominic Comins from the KM Charity Team said: "We have had a great response from Ashford schools, but if your school, or even your local business, still wants to get involved in some way, there is still time.”

He added: “You can bring in a teddy, wear funky footwear, or even just something bright on the day. All monies are going to great charities.”

For more information including how businesses, schools and individuals can take part click HERE or contact Mr Comins on dcomins@thekmgroup.co.uk.