An enormous teddy bear that has been part of a magical festive event is being auctioned off to raise funds for a Cornish child bereavement charity.

Gerald the bear has enjoyed a lot of cuddles during this season’s Tunnel of Lights experience at the Shipwreck Treasure Museum, Charlestown during December and into the new year.

The event closed on Sunday after a record-breaking run which has seen more than 20,000 people visit the experience which is in its fourth year. The museum will be transformed back to its usual format and will re-open in the spring.

This will make Gerald the bear redundant and, as Sir Tim Smit, who owns the award-winning attraction is also a patron of Penhaligon’s Friends, the oversized cuddly toy will be auctioned off to support the charity.

Lynné Raubenheimer, visitor experience manager at Shipwreck Treasure Museum said: “It’ll be great to find him a loving new home and raise money to help Penhaligon’s Friends’ amazing work supporting bereaved children across Cornwall.”

Julie Parker of Penhaligon’s Friends said: “The comfort and warmth you get from a hug with a bear align with our support towards bereaved children, young people, and their families.