UK’s oldest teddy bear maker asks for a Merrythought or two...
BRITAIN’S oldest surviving teddy bear maker is celebrated its 90th anniversary this month – and is asking fans to share their memories to mark the milestone.
Ironbridge-based Merrythought is asking its fans across the world to contribute to its ‘My Merrythought’ campaign by sharing their own teddy bear stories and photographs from the past 90 years. Managing director Sarah Holmes is the great-granddaughter of the company’s founder Gordon Holmes. “Merrythought is a legacy that has lasted generation after generation and we’re immensely proud that, to this day, we continue to hand-make the finest quality teddy bears right here in Shropshire,” said Ms Holmes.
“I particularly enjoy reading the many letters I receive from the Merrythought community.
“These are often about teddy bears that have been passed down for generations and are still being enjoyed 50, 70 or even 80-plus years on, while others talk about how much joy and hope someone’s Merrythought bear has given them through life.
“It is because of these heartwarming stories that we thought we’d bring the Merrythought community together for our 90th birthday.
“We’re asking our followers to share with us any photos, stories and memories of their own special teddy bears.”
The firm will display pictures around the Ironbridge shop and on social media during the 90th birthday week.
One fan will also win a limited-edition 90th anniversary commemorative teddy bear.
The bear blends together the ruby (40th) and golden (50th) anniversary year colours throughout its design and has Merrythought’s 90th anniversary logo embroidered onto its left paw.
Merrythought is asking followers to post their memory and a photograph to Instagram or Facebook using the hashtag #MyMerrythought and tagging in the firm @MerrythoughtBears. Alternatively, email your entry to marketing@merrythought.co.uk. The deadline is September 10, 2020.