TOTS and toys were in for a big surprise as they enjoyed a tasty teddy bear treat.

Pupils from Barnard Castle Preparatory School enjoyed a picnic tea with their favourite stuffed toys and a host of fun and games at an annual end of term celebration.

Reception teacher Laura Turner said: "The teddy bears picnic is a very special treat for all the children and their bears.

"Its a bit of fun and time to play, especially for the reception children who started this year, before they all move into their next year group."

As well as a picnic tea of sandwiches, strawberries and jelly, the children, aged from four to seven, also enjoyed lots of outdoor games and a magic show.

The picnic is just one of a number of treats that the school holds annually as pupils look forward to finishing class for their summer break.

Reception pupil Nidhi Devghan, five, of High Etherley, Bishop Auckland, said: "My teddy is called Furry Bear and I was really happy to bring him to school today."

Clutching her bear, Lucy Dalton, four, of Melsonby, added: "I love my bear. The teddy bears picnic is lots of fun and I liked the magicians rabbit."