Grace Matthews, 5, front left, with her mum, Vicky, before their sponsored Toddle Waddle to raise funds for the Meningitis Trust, after Grace contracted the disease and had both legs amputated. Picture: Denise Bradley

A brave little girl who had to have both legs amputated as she battled meningitis joined dozens of toddlers as they waddled in aid of charity.

Vicky Matthews organised a Toddle Waddle which took place at the Bayer Crop Social Club in Hellesdon Road, Norwich, on Saturday. The event, held to raise funds for the Meningitis Trust, saw up to 40 youngsters take part including Mrs Matthews’s daughter Grace, now five, who contracted Group B meningococcal septicaemia in January last year.

Youngsters, aged five and under, walked about a mile around the field of the social club.

The waddle was part of a family fun day which included a barbecue, face painting, a cake and book sale and games.

Mrs Matthews, of Bacton Road, Mile Cross, said: “We had a really good turn-out and beautiful weather, so you can’t ask for more than that.

“Grace did it. She walked most of it on her own and walked with Meningitis Trust’s mascot Monty. It was a really nice, fun day.”

The trust’s mascot Monty the Duck led the way and Grace’s brother Thomas also took part.

For more information about the Meningitis Trust, go to www.meningitis-trust.org.

Do you know a brave youngster who has battled a life-threatening disease? Call reporter Kate Scotter on 01603 772326 or email kate.scotter@archant.co.uk