TRAVELLERS can often get lost when they are out and about, especially if they are only six inches tall.

Travelling Ted, the school mascot at Potter's House School, on Arley Avenue, Bury, has been touring the world over the past five years with staff and children, visiting such far flung places as the Great Wall of China with Mary Mitchell, the school's principal, and also to Malawi and Hawaii.

Mrs Mitchell said: "We bought Ted to help the children with their geography. Every time someone is going away, they take Ted with them and we are able to see on the school map where he is going."

But it was on a weekend away in Hebden Bridge, just after Easter, with pupils Hannah and Esther Johnson, that poor Ted went missing. The pair had been on a walk near Hardcastle Crags and were distraught at his disappearance.

The girls had also hoped that their furry friend would join them on their summer holiday to Portugal, but instead took along a replacement in the shape of Mrs Ted.

The three of them had great fun, and while they were away, the school was contacted by Mr Neil Gatenby, from York, who had found Ted.

Mrs Mitchell said: "It was such a day of celebration when Ted turned up. He wears a keyring with the name and number of the school around his neck, and we hoped that someone would pick him up and contact us. Hannah was especially happy because she felt responsible for him when he went missing."

The bear that went AWOL was returned safe and sound to Potter's House last week, to the joy of all the children and the teachers too.

And now Mr and Mrs Ted only travel as a couple and are looking forward to their many adventures in the future.