Norfolk teddy bears are packing their bags and preparing to travel to sunnier climes- all in the name of charity.
A fundraising initiative, which will see three teddies travel to Hong Kong, Australia and California, is the brainchild of Lyssa Powell, Fundraising Leader of the University of East Anglia Paediatric Society.
The event will see the teddies, recently named as Cookie, Horatio and Florence, sponsored to travel the world aided by generous companies who receive them in the post. The fundraising initiative is in aid of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
Lyssa, who will write travel blogs on behalf of the teddies, said: “The teddies start their travels this week. The inspiration was a mix of me having to plan an elective abroad and thinking about all the great places I have yet to visit or know so little about, as well as a love of teddies.
“We have supported EACH in the past and as medical students it’s easy to appreciate just how important the role of the hospices are in terms of meeting the care needs of terminally ill children.”
The teddies will initially travel to Hong Kong, Australia and California but the group hope to travel them as far as they can until August, which is when they have decided to stop the scheme.
Jessica Hiscocks, EACH fundraiser, said: “We are delighted that Lyssa and the UEA Paediatric Society have decided to support EACH through the Follow Teddy fundraising initiative. It’s such an original way to raise money and we hope it captures people’s imaginations and encourages them to support the cause.
“We wish Cookie, Horatio and Florence safe journeys and look forward to hearing all about their travels!”
To follow the teddies’ travels, or to make a donation, please click here
