The Gurkha Welfare Trust's (GWT) annual Teddy Bear Auction has to date raised over £8,000 for Gurkha veterans and rural Nepalese communities.

Born out of supporters' stitchwork in 2022, the event now in its third year, fashions bespoke teddy bears, from saris-draped females to traditional Nepalese attire, and Gurkha soldiers and musicians.

Launching this year's auction on May 24, with 22 meticulously adorned bears, the GWT anticipates that supporters will pour into their fundraising website from May 24 to June 3.

The much-anticipated event has significantly boosted help for the veterans, their families, and communities living in Nepal, by auctioning these locally crafted, enchanting bears, showcasing the skills of the trust's supporters.

Visit https://www.jumblebee.co.uk/GWTteddyauction24 to join the cause.

The Gurkha Welfare Trust’s events and community fundraising co-ordinator Keta Hunt 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 I am sure that there will be some friendly competition when the bidding starts!"