Pudsey Bear and crew delighted by 'generosity, kindness and warmth' of Scarborough during fundraising sailing trip

This week, Scarborough was visited by the iconic Pudsey Bear as part of the exciting Big Bear Voyage, which is travelling along the UK coastline to raise funds for Children in Need.

A unique sailing challenge launched this spring, inspired by Jonathan and Jackie Brewin. Along with a crew of friends and Pudsey Bear, their yacht Big Bear has embarked on a 2,200-nautical-mile voyage around the UK coastline with the aim of raising £70,000 for BBC Children in Need. The crew set sail from Hamble (near Southampton) on May 14 and Pudsey Bear has been sailing on the 53ft/16m yacht Big Bear, calling at 35 towns and cities and visiting all four countries of the UK: England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland. The voyage is set to take three months, with the crew expecting to finish their incredible journey on August 8.

The Big Bear Voyage came to Scarborough this week to raise funds for BBC Children in Need.

placeholder image — The Big Bear Voyage came to Scarborough this week to raise funds for BBC Children in Need.

Along the route, Pudsey and the crew are connecting with local communities through walks and fundraising activities, building awareness and inspiring support for young people facing adversity – particularly the 1 in 5 children in the UK experiencing mental health challenges.

Jonathan Brewin, Skipper and owner of yacht Big Bear, said: “We had a fantastic time in Scarborough and came away delighted by the generosity, kindness and warmth shown to us by your residents and tourists alike.

The Big Bear Voyage has embarked on a 2,200-nautical-mile voyage around the UK coastline with the aim of raising £70,000 for BBC Children in Need.

“In particular we were warmly welcomed by the Commodore, Flag Officers and members of the Scarborough Yacht Club.

“Thank you all for the support you have shown to the Big Bear team, Pudsey and BBC Children in Need.

“This year I turn 70. Rather than marking the occasion quietly, my wife Jackie and I decided to do something more purposeful – raising £70,000 for a charity that achieves so much for young people in need.”

Emma Douglas, Supporter Experience Manager for BBC Children in Need, said: “We’re incredibly inspired by the Big Bear Voyage and the remarkable commitment behind it – aiming to raise £70,000 for BBC Children in Need.

"This voyage will help change young lives across the UK, and we’re honoured to have this support.” Visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/jonathan-brewin-1 for more information and to donate.