Haywards Heath’s annual Teddy Bears Picnic returned to Beech Hurst on Friday 21 August, bringing hundreds of local families together for an afternoon of sunshine, entertainment and teddy bear fun.
Organised by Haywards Heath FoodBank in partnership with Haywards Heath Town Council, the popular free event welcomed children and their families for an afternoon packed with entertainment, activities and plenty of teddy bear fun.
The event proved more popular than ever, with tickets selling out in less than a minute each day. Tickets were released in three waves to give as many families as possible the opportunity to attend.
A spokesperson for Haywards Heath Town Council said: “The incredible demand for this year’s Teddy Bears Picnic really shows just how much this event has become a highlight for local families. It was fantastic to see so many residents enjoying a sunny afternoon together, with children having fun and, of course, plenty of teddy bears joining in too!”
Families enjoyed a fantastic magician show, free teacup rides, soft play, sensory play and rides on the much-loved Beech Hurst Miniature Railway. A particular highlight of the afternoon was Billy the Bear, the much-loved star of the Teddy Bears Picnic, who made a special appearance and was available for photographs with families throughout the event. His arrival was a firm favourite with the children and provided plenty of memorable photo opportunities.
Children aged 10 and under who had secured a ticket were also treated to a small packed lunch, ice cream and a small teddy bear as part of the event.
The Town Council spokesperson added: “We would like to thank Haywards Heath FoodBank for all their hard work in organising another fantastic Teddy Bears Picnic, as well as everyone who helped make the event possible. We’re delighted that so many local families were able to join us, and we hope everyone went home with some very happy memories.”
As the teddy bears head home for another year, the success of this year’s event has given families plenty to look forward to. The Teddy Bears Picnic will return next summer, continuing its tradition of bringing families together for a free afternoon of fun at Beech Hurst.
By Kelly Lewis
