READY, Teddy Go...it's time to raise cash for Bolton's Marie Curie Nurses.

The charity is appealing for people to run Name the Bear competitions as part of an effort to raise £200,000 in 12 months.

The campaign is being run to fund more free nursing care for terminally ill people in the borough.

And it is being backed by The Bolton News.

Organisations are being urged to “adopt” a teddy bear, which people can choose a name for from a list of 200, in return for a £1 donation.

The sealed envelope containing the soft toy’s identity is then opened and the winner gets the bear. The proceeds go to the appeal.

Moss Dental Care, in Tonge Fold, held a Name the Bear competition, raising £102.

Jackie Johnson, manager of the practice in Bury Road, said: “When the charity suggested we have a Name the Bear competition we thought it would be fun.

“It was a great way to involve everyone in some fundraising, we’d like to thank our patients for taking part, they’ve been absolutely brilliant.

“Rufus now has a happy home.”

Marie Curie supply a full kit for fundraisers. Hannah Taylor, community fundraiser, said: “We need your help to find new homes for our beautiful teddy bears.

“We’re asking local shops, surgeries, pubs and offices to support the Bolton Nursing Appeal by holding a Name the Bear competition."

To hold a Name the Bear competition contact Hannah Taylor on 0161 255 2809.

Let us know what you are doing for the Marie Curie Nurses Appeal on 01204 537203.