It was picnic time for teddy bears of all shapes and sizes at a special event held in aid of a children’s hospice.

The lunch at Borde Hill Garden in Haywards Heath included a fancy dress competition for the cuddly toys while their young owners enjoyed a range of games and activities throughout the afternoon.

The picnic was held in aid of the Chestnut Tree House children's hospice near Arundel, which cares for hundreds of life-limited children and their families across the county.

The hospice is not part of the NHS and relies on the support of the community to keep its vital services going.

The picnic was one of a host of activities being held at the garden throughout the school summer holidays.