Gurkha Welfare Trust Teddy Bear Auction is back for 2023

Following the success of the Gurkha Welfare Trust's first Teddy Bear Auction last year, the event has returned for 2023.

The online auction raised £4,000 last year and this year's event aims to build on its popularity and has already raised more than £2,500.

Teddy bears are donated by supporters, who have dressed them up in either a Gurkha or Nepali-themed outfit, and they are then sold online.

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Several of the bears wear Gurkha uniforms and to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the first Everest ascent, the trust has Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary bears.

There are a variety of bears on offer, each meticulously decorated – from female bears in beautiful saris to bears in traditional Nepali dresses with matching topi caps.

The auction has generated more than £2,500 so far and 29 bears will be up for sale until 29 May.

All proceeds from this year's auction will go towards the trust's work supporting vulnerable Gurkha veterans and widows in Nepal.

The Gurkha Welfare Trust's Community Fundraising Officer Helen Souch said: "It has been very difficult in the last few years to raise money for our work in Nepal.

"We are always looking for new ways to raise funds, and at the same time encourage our supporters to have a bit of fun.

"We are so grateful to the amazing people who have decorated these adorable bears and are sure there will be some stiff competition when bidding starts."