If you went down to the woods last Sunday, you were sure of a big surprise as all the teddy bears had scampered off for a brilliant day at Cholmondeley Castle, in Cheshire.

A multitude of teddies of all colours and sizes descended on the castle’s beautiful grounds to enjoy the annual Teddy Bear’s Picnic.

Organised by the Wingate Centre, a specialist holiday and recreation centre for disabled and disadvantaged children, the day was a huge success with hundreds attending what has become a regular feature in the summer calendar.

Numerous volunteers helped to host a range of fun activities in aid of the centre, including bouncy castle, hook a duck, a bear hunt, face painting, Punch and Judy and a very special Disney Show featuring Princess Elsa and Moana.

The beautiful castle gardens provided the perfect backdrop for families to enjoy their picnic.

Rona Moroney, general manager at the centre, was quick to thank the owner of the castle for the help and support he had given to them.

“We were delighted to have the support of The Marquess of Cholmondeley, who is president of the Wingate Centre, and the Castle team for this fun-filled day that raises funds for a very worthy cause,” she said.

To learn more about the Wingate Centre, which is based in Wrenbury, see www.thewingatecentre.co.uk for more details.