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WINNIE-THE-POOH’S STAMP OF APPROVAL FROM MORECAMBE TEDDY BEAR MAKER

A devoted teddy bear maker and collector from Morecambe, along with some of her collection, lent a paw to Royal Mail to help launch its latest special stamps which tell the magical story of Winnie-the-Pooh.

Elaine Hirst, designer and creator of ‘edenbears’ traditionally-styled artist bears, showcased the Winnie-the-Pooh stamp series at her home and workshop, surrounded by several bears from her personal collection and some visitors to her teddy bear hospital, where she sympathetically restores well-loved family heirlooms to their former glory.

The 10 stamps celebrate the enduring popularity and universal appeal of the hunny-loving character, famously created by AA Milne for his son, Christopher Robin, in 1926. Pooh was beautifully brought to life in endearing illustrations by EH Shepard and images from the original Pooh stories, Winnie-the-Pooh, The House at Pooh Corner and the book of verse, Now we are Six, feature in the series of stamps. Pooh takes centre stage on the stamps, but is also joined by his pals Christopher Robin, Piglet, Eeyore, Rabbit, Kanga, Roo, Owl and Tigger.

Elaine said: “I think the stamps are absolutely beautiful and I’m so honoured to be asked to help launch them. I’ve loved bears for as long as I can remember and I started collecting them as soon as I left school. My hobby developed into a business and I’ve been making collectible bears since 2007, so to be involved in the launch of the Winnie-the-Pooh stamps is brilliant.”

Philip Parker, Royal Mail Stamps Strategy Manager, said: “At nearly 90 years old, Winnie-the-Pooh is looking incredibly good for his age, thanks to the imaginative writing of AA Milne and the timeless illustrations of EH Shepard. “We’re delighted that through this wonderful collection we will bring a new adventure for Winnie-the-Pooh and his friends as they travel on letters to millions of homes across the UK and beyond.”