Bowbridge Court, Newark, resident and bowls champion celebrates beloved mascot on teddy day

An international bowls champion and her beloved teddy bear mascot have shared their story on national teddy day.

The day was marked on Monday (February 10) by a Newark care home, with Bowbridge Court resident Brenda Atherton sharing her remarkable story which took place with her mascot, Robin, a teddy bear dressed as Robin Hood, by her side.

Her competetive bowls career, filled with triumphs, saw her and Robin travel around the world, representing England in prestigious events and tournaments including England vs. Australia and a memorable competition in Vancouver.

Brenda said: “It was brilliant to have Robin as our mascot during the competitions, he brought us good luck and all the ladies loved having him with us. Now I’m lucky enough for him to enjoy his retirement with me at Bowbridge Court.”

Brenda was born on October 31, 1935, in Nottingham, and grew up in a family with a deep connection to the sport.

Her father, a keen player, and their home next to a bowling green, sparked Brenda's early interest in the game.

It was in her thirties that Brenda embarked on her competitive bowls career, joining the Gedling team at the indoor bowling club — and it wasn’t long before she made her mark and was selected to play for the England national team.

Robin was given to Brenda by a former bowls team president and subsequently travelled with her to every competition, offering a sense of comfort and companionship through the ups and downs of international competition.

Debbie Cook, home manager at Bowbridge Court, said: “Robin is a very popular teddy, and wherever Brenda is, we find Robin. They've spent a long time together and the love and devotion she shows for him is so beautiful, it's spread within the home.”