CHILDREN and staff at Happy Tots Day Nursery, Barrow, have been busting a move in the name of charity.

The preschool class were visited on Friday by Cathy and her support dog Dave, from Liverpool, after children had been fundraising for the charity, Support Dogs.

The pair

The inquisitive youngsters asked questions such as 'Does Dave like to play football?' and 'What does Dave do?'

Happy Tots Day Nursery staff member Angela Kernaghan said: "We have been doing a dancing through the decades themed danceathon all week.

"Every day from Monday to Friday at 7am til 6pm there has been someone dancing in this room.

"On Monday we did 60's, on Tuesday we did 70's, Wednesday 80's, Thursday 90's and today we did the 2000's.

"So far I think we have about £400, but the money doesn't have to be in yet - I'm hoping to at least double it!

"The children have been on a rota and depending on the age they have been doing 30 or 45 time slots."

The preschool class entertained Cathy and Dave, bouncing their way around the room to the Sugarbabes and Duffy, with Dave giving the tail-wag of approval.

The nursery chose the charity Support Dogs as their charity of the year.

The support dogs are trained to increase the independence and quality of life for children and adults with autism, epilepsy and physical disabilities.

Angela Kernaghan said: "We have been talking a lot about how we are all different, as the support dogs are used by people with disabilities.

"The children have absolutely loved it.

"Even the under two's have loved taking part.

"Obviously they copy the adults that they are watching.

"They've been waving their arms in the air and clapping along!

"Even our before and after school clubs have been joining in.

"The children range from babies up until the age of 11.

"We like to pick a charity of the year as it means that we can raise more money for them.

"Our boss chose Support Dogs as the charity of the year after they adopted a dog."

You can sponsor Dave the labrador retreiver for just £5 a month.

Visit the website at www.supportdogs.org.uk/donate/sponsor-dave