IF you had gone down to the woods on Saturday the surprise might have been more than teddy bears having a picnic.

For weather experts predicted storm force winds and so health and safety advisors decided it would be too risky for the Julia's House teddy event at Nursteed House, Devizes, to go ahead.

But Vee Thursby was determined the event to raise money for our appeal would still happen as soon as possible and so she and her band of helpers have put everything in place for this Saturday (August 27) instead.

Mrs Thursby, who granddaughter Sophie from All Cannings is helped by the children's hospice, said: "It was really disappointing to have to postpone the picnic.

"On Saturday morning it looked like the weather was not as bad as forecast but by 3pm it was tipping it down and the wind had arrived with vengeance. We couldn't take any chances especially as the garden has so many trees. Lets hope for much better weather this weekend."

Mayor Jane Burton will be there on Saturday to help with judging and everything else we go ahead as planned from 2pm.

Mrs Thursby, from Patney, is being supported by the Devizes Friends of Julia's House including David and Letitia Scott who live at Nursteed House.

Mrs Thursby said: "I would like to have a special mention of Iain Wallis of both Wallis Marquees and Moonraker Bears, Mr and Mrs Scott and Jonathan Taylor of Grist Environmental for backing us 100 per cent. Also all the volunteers and suppliers, including Justin Leonard of Community First, Jane Lear of Lacock Dairy, Dorset Tea and many more."

The afternoon will include contests for all types of bears including largest, smallest, oldest, best dressed, best names and teddy most like its owner. Devizes Mayor Jane Burton and staff of Moonraker Bears will do the judging.

There will also be games and activities for all ages including a bouncy castle, mini Land Rover obstacle course, story telling by Roger Day, face painting and expert advice on bee keeping.

It is hoped that a raffle with prizes been donated by local firms and organisations will help boost funds. Mrs Thursby, from Patney, near Devizes, said: "There are prizes such as trip on Kennet & Avon Canal donated by Kennet & Avon Trust, full manicure from Holly at Willett & James, gifts from Little Hen House and a hamper from Planks Farm Shop.

There will also be a play park, a grill run by Devizes Rotary Club and other refreshments such as tea, coffee, cakes and scones and a produce stall.

Entrance is free and there will be free car car parking off Marshall Road roundabout on the A342.