The Gurkha Welfare Trust has confirmed the online fundraiser will run from Thursday 22nd May until Saturday 31st May. Supporters from across the UK have once again created a collection of handmade bears for bidding.
More than £2,500 was raised through last year’s appeal to support Gurkha veterans, their families and remote communities in Nepal.
This year, 17 individually designed bears will go under the hammer. Each has been decorated to reflect aspects of Nepali culture and the history of the Brigade of Gurkhas.
Designs include bears dressed in traditional saris, Nepali outfits complete with Topi hats, and miniature Gurkha soldier uniforms.
Organisers say the initiative has grown into a popular way for supporters to combine creativity with fundraising. It also aims to highlight the challenges faced by elderly Gurkha veterans living in isolated mountain regions.
A South West Year 4 class will also take part for the first time this year. Pupils have designed and decorated their own bear as part of the project.
Eleanor Harcourt, Community Fundraiser at The Gurkha Welfare Trust, said: “The Teddy Bear Auction has become a truly special event in our fundraising calendar. It’s inspiring to see the creativity and generosity of our supporters, who put so much care into every bear.
“It’s great to see a local Year 4 class get involved this year too – not only does the auction raise essential funds for our work in Nepal, but it also brings a real sense of joy and community here in the UK. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who takes part.”
Funds raised will contribute towards financial assistance, healthcare and community development projects delivered in some of Nepal’s most remote areas.
The full collection of bears will be available to view and bid on from Thursday 22 May via their website.
