Open day for Teddies for Tragedies

By
Katrina Rowe
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0
337

The Llanelli and Mynydd Mawr Railway are delighted to be hosting a Teddy Bear’s Picnic event at Cynheidre on Saturday 15th July 2023 from 10am to 3pm in support of Teddies for tragedies who provide teddies and other items including clothing to children living in tragic circumstances. There will be a display of classic vehicles and the railway will also be offering short train rides with their ex Military Railcar.

There will be lots to see and do throughout the day including:

Bring your Teddies (for donation or just for a visit)

A display of classic vehicles including cars, trikes and tractors

Railcar trips and tours of the railways rolling stock

Hot and cold refreshments

Nature area and benches for picnics

All attractions are subject to availability on the day.

UTBP2 LMMR Railcar Images provided by Llanelli and Mynydd Mawr Railway

Hot and cold drinks plus Hot Dogs and Burgers will be available to purchase from our new catering van plus there will be a range of gifts and souvenirs on sale in the shop.

The railway is a registered charity and is located at the site of the former Cynheidre Colliery, SA15 5DQ, just five miles from Llanelli on the B4309 Llanelli to Carmarthen Road.

UTBP1 Coal Merchant, Image provided by Llanelli and Mynydd Mawr Railway
Teddies for Tragedies started as a pattern for knitted teddies intended to bring comfort and hope to children around the world. In 1986 in Somerset, “Superted”, a washable knitted teddy, was added to a consignment of medicines going to a refugee camp in Sudan. The doctor replied “ For some children, these teddies do more good than medicines, giving them hope”. The teddy knitting began, and a bag was added, increasing the play value. In 1991, when the pattern came to Guildford, Surrey, “Teddies for Tragedies” began. Now there are a number of branches around the country. We now accept squares for blankets, hand puppets, children and baby clothes and dog coats as well as teddies. Branches collect, check and pack the items, then find locally supported missionaries or aid groups working with children in tragic circumstances overseas. A spokesman commented ‘We hope for information back, with photographs when possible’.
The railway is a charity run totally by volunteers. It is hoping to grow into a major tourist attraction for the Llanelli district and in order to reach our goals we need more volunteer help in all departments including operational, maintenance and restoration, and administration. If you could spare a few hours for what is a most enjoyable pastime and worthwhile cause do not hesitate to get in touch. For more information or to volunteer please visit our website at https://www.llanellirailway.co.uk or Facebook page at 

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