A bear fit for a (future) king

He’s soft and cuddly and made of Shetland wool – and he belongs to a future king.

Burra Bear “George Alexander Louis” – named after the prince who was born in July – was sent to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in July to congratulate them on the birth of their son.

And convener Malcolm Bell has received a letter from Kensington Palace, giving the Duke and Duchess’ thanks and best wishes.

Mr Bell said: “The birth of a future king is such a special event and I thought it important that, as the most northerly part of his future kingdom, Shetland should mark Prince George’s safe arrival.

“I was delighted to commission a ‘Burra Bear’, named after Prince George himself and am pleased and honoured to hear their Royal Highnesses have accepted this small gift. In time I look forward to Prince George visiting Shetland himself.”

The bear was handmade by Wendy Inkster from Burra using Shetland wool.

She said: “It really was such an honour to be asked to make a Burra Bear to be gifted to the royal baby on behalf of the people of Shetland, especially considering the vast amount of talent there is in our islands, producing such a wide range of innovative and unique products. I was so proud to think that one of my peerie bears was chosen to be sent to the future king.”

She said a great deal of time and effort went in to choosing the right Fair Isle pattern for the bear before it was decided that a traditional pattern in soft Shetland colours would be the most fitting. This was knitted locally from pure Shetland wool, before his name tag was attached and he was went to London.

Ms Inkster added: “As I often receive postcards from my bears I am now just waiting for the postie to deliver one from a very special address in London!”