The Ludgershall Ladies Breakfast Club have handed dozens of teddy bears to the town’s firefighters, after responding to an appeal for the toys to comfort children who’ve been affected by fire.

The Bienvenue Club meets regularly in the Church Hall every month and spied the appeal from the Wiltshire Fire Brigade asking people to knit ‘Trauma Teddies’.

A spokesperson for the group said:

“There is a particular pattern for the knit, which is downloadable, so after a brief email discussion we went to work and the result has been nearly 20 new Trauma Teddies for the Fire Station.”

Tess Cross, Education Manager from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “We really appreciate the time and effort of all the skilled knitters who have made teddies. We have been overwhelmed by the response but now have plenty of the Trauma Teds who will be given to children in need of comfort.”

Dozens of ladies who took up the challenge, explained their reasons for getting involved:

“The reason I made a Trauma Teddy for Ludgershall Fire Station was in memory of my cousin Steve, who was a firefighter. The request post came on his birthday, so I thought Why not make a Teddy and call him Steve.”

Another said:

“I haven’t been knitting anything for years and these little Teddys were for such a good cause it really inspired me, and I made four!”

Firefighters at Luggershall Fire station will carry the teddy bears on their appliances for crew to give to distressed children.

Ms Cross said the bears were extremely well knitted and encouraged the crafters to help other organisations:

“Many hospitals and care homes would love knitted blankets, baby hats and other items but do make sure you are aware of what they may need before starting on your project.”