A CHARITY ‘Teddy Bear Walk’ is to be held in memory of a tragic little boy thanks to his family.

Four-year-old Harry Jones, who was a pupil at Borras Park Infants, died suddenly in his sleep in 2005.

His parents Julia and Jeff Jones, from Little Acton, have since organised an annual walk in his memory in aid of Hope House Children’s Hospice, which this year will be held on June 12.

“It’s our way of keeping Harry’s memory alive,” said Julia. “I thought it would be nice for the children to go on a quest through the forest, and I know it’s something Harry would have enjoyed.”

She added: “He came home one day, he had been sick at school, but he seemed ok. He fell asleep on the sofa and that was it – he was four.

“It’s also a way of saying thank you to Hope House after all the support they gave us – it’s nice to give something back, and I’m sure Harry would have approved of it,” she added.

The walk will take place around Nant Mill Country Park and questions and challenges will hang in the trees for the children to find. Children should bring a teddy bear and entry is £1 per teddy.

“At the end of it the children get to meet the Hope House Hound,” said Julia – which, she said, would be her son Sam, Harry’s older brother, in a suit.
Harry’s twin Charlie, 10, and Sam, 15, are central to the event.

“Hope House help with organising the event and Charlie and Sam are always involved,” she added. “It has to have their seal of approval before we do it.

“Charlie and all of Harry’s friends are growing up. We try to keep it going for them, so as the children grow older we’ll keep progressing it and keep it interesting for them – it’s their way of remembering Harry as well.”

Last year the walk raised an amazing £1,600.

“All the children get sponsored to do it, that’s what brings in the money,” said Julia.

“The duck race is also very popular – they pay for the entertainment of seeing me fall over in the river, which happens every year.”

Refreshments are served after the walk and the duck race along the river finishes off the day. There are also fun stalls run by Harry’s family and friends.

“This year we’re doing something a little different with a walk for the older children as well,” said Julia.

Rachel Jones, of Hope House, said: “The walk isn’t far – it’s suitable for everyone, including toddlers. And everything’s kept reasonably priced to ensure everyone can afford it.

“The aim of the day is to create a really nice day out where everyone can get together and hang out and at the same time raise money for Hope House in memory of Harry,” Rachel added.

The walk will get under way at 12pm and the duck race will follow at 2pm.