Beattie bear axed by store

The famous Beattie bear has been axed - and replaced with a House of Fraser teddy.

The move has been described as another kick in the teeth for the traditional department store, which faces losing its name after a £351million takeover by Icelandic firm Baugur.

The cute bear has delighted thousands of shoppers since it was introduced in 1990.

Today the Mayor of Wolverhampton Councillor John Davis, who was set to receive a Beatties bear for his charities this Christmas as is traditional, said it was a real shame.

Today only the new bears, with Fraser bear 2006 on their paws, line the shelves at the flagship Wolverhampton branch. House of Fraser confirmed the Beattie bear was no longer in production.

Councillor Phil Bateman said: "Once again this is part of the sad demise of the James Beattie brand and his legacy."

Do you own a Beattie Bear? Phone our Teddy Hotline on 01902 319423. Or email: newsdesk@expressandstar.co.uk