Teddy Bear Auction
If you came down to the auction today you are sure to get a big surprise…
Over 1000 Charlie Bears and other modern collectable teddy bears went under the hammer at Anderson and Garland selling for over £21,000, more than double of the presale estimate. One of many newer collecting areas, expanding from the well-known names like Steiff and Merrythought, Charlie Bears were established in just 2005 in Cornwall, by Charlotte and William Morris. They quickly established themselves through the fine quality and eclectic mix of designs and names. This collection was compiled by Ann Short, late of Blyth, Northumberland, who exchanged Birthday cards with Charlotte Morris. Her family were amazed when they cleared her home to find so many bears though out the house, not realising the extent or importance of the collection. She also collected Jewellery and Swarovski ornaments which went into other specialist sales or sections of their own. Director of Anderson and Garland, Fred Wyrley-Birch, said “For its type, it’s a very large collection and you would be hard pressed to find a larger one in the country. There are bears of all shapes, sizes, colours and names.” Some of the names were quite imaginative including Sir Hugalot, Snugglebum, and Fish, Chips and Mushy Peas. Top lots were lot 2- Dusty £600, lot 8- Bethany £430 and lot 56- Rudolph, Bob, Hogmanay, Dudley, Nutmeg, Pudding, Mince Pie, Santa Paws and Socks £370. Such was the competition for this collection, there wasn’t as single unsold lot!