Salisbury Gurkha charity launches fourth Teddy Bear Auction

Tuesday, 19 May 2026 10:42

The Gurkha Welfare Trust has announced the return of its much-loved Teddy Bear Auction for a fourth year, running from Thursday 22nd May to Saturday 31st May.

In 2024 the event raised over £2,500 to support Gurkha veterans, their families, and communities in rural Nepal. The initiative has captured the imagination of supporters across the UK, who once again have taken to their sewing kits, knitting needles, and craft tables to create a collection of individually styled teddy bears.

Each bear has been thoughtfully and creatively dressed, celebrating both traditional Nepali culture and the rich heritage of the Brigade of Gurkhas. This year’s collection includes bears adorned in elegant saris, traditional Nepali dress complete with Topi hats, and even miniature representations of Gurkha soldiers.

In a special addition this year, a South-west Year 4 school class has taken part in the project, designing and decorating their very own bear. Their involvement highlights the growing community spirit behind the initiative and introduces younger generations to the work of the Trust.

A total of 17 unique bears will be available to bid on during the online auction, with supporters encouraged to take part and help raise vital funds for GWT’s ongoing work.

Eleanor Harcourt, Community Fundraiser at The Gurkha Welfare Trust, said, "The Teddy Bear Auction has become a truly special event in our fundraising calendar. It’s inspiring to see the creativity and generosity of our supporters, who put so much care into every bear.

"It’s great to see a local Year 4 class get involved this year too - not only does the auction raise essential funds for our work in Nepal, but it also brings a real sense of joy and community here in the UK. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who takes part."

Funds raised from the auction will help support Gurkha veterans and their families, providing financial aid, healthcare, and community development projects in some of Nepal’s most remote regions.

Supporters can view the full collection and place their bids from 22nd May to 31st May via the Gurkha Welfare Trust’s online auction platform: https://www.jumblebee.co.uk/GWTteddybearauction2026