A FAMOUS teddy bear has been spreading cheer at a North-East children’s hospital as part of a nationwide tour to raise funds for medical research.

Paddington Bear delighted patients at the Great North Children’s Hospital in Newcastle when he called in to see them yesterday (Tuesday, August 19).

Seven-year-old Cameron Howe, from Bishop Auckland, was especially excited to meet the much-loved bear and beamed when he received a hug from his hero.

Paddington is the mascot for Action Medical Research and was in the region promoting the charity’s Bear Miles for Breakthroughs campaign.

Every penny raised through the appeal will go towards funding essential research to help save and change the lives of thousands of sick babies and children.

Sarah Moss, director of communications at Action Medical Research, said: “Paddington has been at the heart of our fundraising efforts for nearly 40 years and the money raised through the Bear Miles for Breakthroughs appeal will enable us to continue helping thousands of sick babies and children.”

As well as donating at the website action.org.uk/BearMiles, supporters can keep up to date with Paddington’s adventure by following @actionmedres or visiting facebook.com/actionevents