Iris and Ches Chesney of HM Bears have been designing and making exclusive teddy bears for over a quarter of a century.


Nestled in their tiny cottage in the foothills of the English Lake District, the two bear artists draw their inspiration from a love of the natural world. They carefully study the movements of bears by watching wildlife videos closely and then add their own unique style and sense of humour when dressing these beautiful, hand made creatures.


It is no wonder that these bears are so desirable, given their makers' backgrounds. Iris loves exquisite crafts and in her spare time away from her demanding job as a staff nurse, she was an experienced and fine needle woman. Ches has always displayed an interest in the visual arts, he has had painting exhibitions all over the world and still enjoys drawing in his spare time.


Each bear made in their workshop has an excellent pedigree, and an inspiration for new teddy bear designers. HM Bears has supplied a wide range of outlets and collectors and their bears have gone all over the world and to people from all walks of life.


Years ago the famous arctophile, the late Peter Bull inspired Iris and Ches by advising them how an authentic bear should look and the advice has proved invaluable.


Their work has been of such a high standard that the Queen Mother has bought from HM Bears for Prince William, and Simpsons of Piccadilly were regular stockists.


Today, some of their many projects include making exclusive, limited editions for Asquiths, the first teddy bear shop in the UK. Their work has taken them all over the world to promote HM Bears by signing sessions and master classes.


After being in business for so long, what do Iris and Ches think about now? They say they are looking forward to the next twenty five years of teddy bear making...