Isle of Man Newspapers has started an island-wide bear hunt to keep children entertained during the pandemic lockdown.
Residents have responded to the initiative in which they place their teddy bears on window sills for children to spot on their daily walks.
The Manx Bear Hunt follows New Zealand’s lead with the idea being inspired by the children’s book ’We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ by UK author Michael Rosen.
New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, has also joined in by putting two teddy bears in the front window of the nation’s official residence in Wellington where she is currently in lockdown with her family.
The hunt has spread across the globe with the motto becoming ’we’re not scared’ - a quote from the 1986 book that has resonated with millions.
Some people have gone wild with their displays using as many of the stuffed toys as possible to cover vehicles parked in the street or changing teddies outfits each day and more.
A number of island residents have decorated their windows with one or a dozen teddy bears, designed to put a smile of self-isolators’ faces while out stretching their legs.
For keen spotters who are out looking to ’catch a big one’, Isle of Man Newspapers’ very own 4ft teddy bear called ’Spencer’ can be seen from a window in our office in Peel Road, Douglas.
We would love to see photos of you spotting teddy bears around your neighbourhood or of your own displays. Email [email protected] or tag @iomnewspapers on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram with the hashtag #strongertogether for it to be shared.