A LITERARY bear illustrated by a famous Whitchurch son is set for a limited appearance along the town's main streets before starting hibernation ahead of a major festival next year.

Randolph Caldecott – a world renowned artist and illustrator who worked and lived in the town – illustrated 'She Bear' in 1885 and the team behind the Caldecott Festival, which will take place in March, 2022, have arranged for her to take a walk today.

Youngsters finishing school will see the Bear walk down Station Road before crossing into Green End and finishing up the High Street.

A festival spokesman said: "After 175 years the Great She Bear will be seen again on Whitchurch High Street – for one hour only.

"She will leave Station Road about 3.30pm and walk down Green End, then up the High Street.

"She will then prepare for hibernation

"She will not be seen again until March 19, 2022 at the Caldecott Arts Festival.

"Come and wish her a good hibernation."

Caldecott is a world-famous artist whose innovative drawings inspired and influenced generations of illustrators.

The Caldecott medal is given each year by the librarians of America for the best new illustrated children’s book.

His art is hung in the Royal Academy, the National Gallery, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and other galleries in the UK, and all over the world.

For further information please see: www.caldecottfestival.org.uk