TEDDY bears and their owners braved the rain to go down to the woods on Saturday to raise money for our Julia's House appeal.

A week earlier the event at Nursteed House, Devizes, was postponed as wet and windy weather was forecast and so on Saturday the show had to go on whatever the weather.

But just as the doors were due to open the storm arrived and two inches of rain fell in about 45 minutes.

Organiser Vee Thursby said: "After the postponement of the first Saturday we really hoped for good weather. However the storm hit right over us. We had a few stalwarts turn up and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves."

Mayor Jane Burton was among those putting on a brave face as she helped with the judging of a variety of teddy bear contests. She said: "It was such a shame that it rained just at that time but we carried on."

Iain Wallis of Moonraker Bears in Sidmouth Street, Devizes, also helped with the judging the handing out of the prizes. The Mayor also drew the raffle with prizes from Planks Farmshop, The Hen House, Holly at Willett & James and the Kennett & Avon Trust.

Mrs Thursby, who organised the event to support the children's hospice which helps her two-year-old granddaughter Sophia, thanked people for their support.

She said: "There was great generosity from so many people who delivered cakes, scones and gave their valuable time. The Devizes Rotary Club did a fabulous bacon and egg sandwich, Justin Leonard from Devizes Community Radio did well with the music and announcements.

"Charles Winchcombe with his mini Landrover was highly popular with the children. Lacock Dairy even managed to sell some ice creams. The Story Teller, Roger Day kept the children enthralled with his stories."