A RESTORED charity bear from the 1960s is looking for a new home.
The Kids charity, which supports disabled children, has returned a former collection bear to its glory days.
The bear is thought to be from the 1960s or 1970s, when bear, dog and toy statues were used by charities for collecting money.
The 32in bear was reconditioned by Kids' Jonathan Greenwood.
Jonathan, 28, said: "The Bank, which is now a pub in Holderness Road, used to have one of those Labrador statues for Guide Dogs for the Blind.
"I remember going there as a kid and asking my mum if we could visit.
"I'd pat it on the head and put a penny in it.
"Those little statues used to be all the rage but you never see them anymore.
"It seems to be bucket collections and little tins next to the cash register now."
Jonathan bought the little brown bear, which has been affectionately known as Parsley, from eBay for about £60.
He then decided to paint it green – representing the charity's colours.
Jonathan got involved with Kids after becoming paralysed when he was 21.
He said: "I had an accident and fell down some stairs.
"I've been working at Kids for a few months. It is something very close to my heart."
Kids and Jonathan hope the bear will become a popular, quirky feature in a local shop to collect dontions.
Jonathan said: "A large shop with lots of customers would be ideal.
"We had a launch day for him a few days ago at St Stephen's shopping centre so visitors could see him there.
"We really hope he can find a new home in the new year and help us raise lots of money for charity."
To give Parsley a home, call 01482 467540 during office hours.
