A LANCASHIRE historic house is this year adding a new event to an already impressive programme of special events.

Leighton Hall, the Carnforth home of the Gillow Reynolds family, will welcome some cuddly characters on Sunday 1st October 2000 when it hosts the first annual Teddy Bear Fair. This is a celebration of our loveable, life-long friends and promises to be a treat for teddy bear fans of all ages.

The fair is being brought to Leighton Hall by Brentwood Fairs, who have been bringing their annual Dolls House and Miniature Fair to the historic house for the past ten years.

The fair is situated inside Leighton Hall, giving visitors the additional treat of being able to view the beautiful interior of the house. There will be almost forty stands of finest quality teddy bears and teddy bear treasures. As well as being able to buy and sell bears and make friends with the ones on display, visitors will also be able to find materials and parts useful for repairing old teddy bear chums or for creating brand new companions!

Suzie Gillow Reynolds said, "It's lovely to see our event calendar continue to grow, and I'm delighted that we have attracted The Teddy Bear Fair to Leighton."

The fair takes place from 10am to 4pm. Admission is £3 for adults, £2 for OAP's and £1.50 for children, (free for under fives).