One of Yorkshire's most distinguished hotels, the Relais & Chateaux-listed Middlethorpe Hall, in York, is now saving its clientele a trip down to the woods, by offering them a range of exclusive collectable teddy bears and rabbits to purchase.

Designed and manufactured by a Yorkshire-based artist, Kim Turner, of Bearability by Kim, whose creations have found homes in royal palaces, presidential homes and aeroplanes, the furry creatures have been introduced to Middlethorpe following inquiries by guests, many of whom are collectors, according to general manager, Milton Hussey.

"We have always had a glass cabinet for selling small exclusive items", said Mr Hussey, "and we have often been asked about teddy bears, especially from our American visitors, who seem to adore English teddies, so now we have some resident in the cabinet, under lock and key, so there won't be any picnicking going on!"

Updated: 09:11 Tuesday, July 22, 2003