Visitors to the New Forest Christmas Teddy Bear Fair held in Beaulieu village last weekend were treated to a truly festive experience.  With the first of the cold weather setting in, the smell of spiced apple juice wafting around the village hall and sales of goulash soup, pretzels and hot dogs from Beaulieu Delicatessen reaching record sales, no one was disappointed.

Exhibitors attending included artists from as far away as Birmingham and Cornwall happy to make the journey to what is now becoming a twice yearly event.  With the summer Bear Festival supporting Honeypot, this  Christmas event helped to raise much needed funds for Vitalise and in particular Netley Waterside House.

Organisers Julie Tatchell and Amanda Middleditch were keen to make this a family event and children and adults alike were entertained by a magician bear and a ‘card shark’.  The day also included the launch of Julie’s first children’s book, ‘Bartie’s Christmas’ illustrated by Jill Fry who was on hand during the day to sketch teddy bears.   

Carol Kitson was face painting and the studio at Bear It In Mind offered drop-in Raggy Ted crafting sessions.  All exhibitors were invited to decorate their stands in a seasonal way and the winner, Tina Brooks of Teeny Bears, received a chocolate Santa and sleigh donated by Trevor Smith of Beaulieu Chocolate Studio.  The winner of the prize draw received a ‘Guest Book Bartie’ signed on the day by all the organisers and exhibitors.

Further information about the bespoke teddy bear range that Julie and Amanda offer can be found at the top of this page or by phoning 01590 612097. 

The date for the next New Forest Teddy Bear Festival supporting Honeypot is Sunday 24th June 2012.