A ‘win a costume’ competition held by Peeks the party people was won by a dad who is using the prize to raise money for a cancer charity he launched in memory of his son.
Owen Newton, from Blandford, set up Teddy20 following the death of his youngest son Ted, aged 10.
When he saw that Peeks’ Facebook competition was giving away a mascot costume he entered – and won a giant Teddy outfit.
He now uses it as the face of the charity that has grown quickly since 2010 and raised well over £110,000.
Peeks, based in Christchurch, asked entrants to explain how they would use a mascot costume and Owen’s story won the day.
Owen said: “We really needed a costume for the charity and when I saw that Peeks were giving one away I thought ‘blow me down’.
“I entered and won a huge teddy costume which we use when we’re out raising money.
“The kids absolutely love it and we’re so pleased because it’s a really good quality one and raises awareness of the charity.”
Nick Peek, managing director of Peeks, said: “We’re delighted that this prize is being used for such a good cause.
“Peeks has been selling products for fundraising since the 1940s and it is still an important part of the business.
“We sell collecting buckets and tins, raffle tickets, sideshow games, prizes and all manner of accessories that help people raise money for good causes.”
The Teddy20 charity was named after Ted and also because the first fundraiser was a Twenty20 cricket match at Blandford CC where dad Owen plays. It is now an annual event.
The charity also holds a Teddy Rocks music festival as well as other events throughout the year.
