Children in Need mascot Pudsey will visit Hartlepool this summer as part of a voyage around the UK coastline to raise money and awareness for young people’s mental health.

The epic 2,200-nautical-mile Big Bear Voyage will see the yellow teddy sail on a yacht called Big Bear manned by a crew of lifelong friends.

Setting sail from Hamble, near Southampton, next month Pudsey and the crew will visit 35 towns and cities over three months including Hartlepool around July 23-25.

Along the route, they will connect with local communities through walks and fundraising activities, building awareness and inspiring support for young people facing adversity.

Pudsey with the Big Bear yacht which will set sail from Hampshire in May.

placeholder image — Pudsey with the Big Bear yacht which will set sail from Hampshire in May.

It is all with the aim of raising £70,000 for BBC Children in Need.

The Big Bear is skippered by Jonathan Brewin and many of the crew have known each other for more than 40 years and supported each other through life’s challenges and milestones.

John said: “This year I turn 70. Rather than marking the occasion quietly, my wife Jackie and I decided to do something more purposeful by raising £70,000 for the charity that achieves so much for youngsters facing challenges.

"So many of us have grown up with Pudsey in our life, but behind that familiar face is an extraordinary network of support for children who really need it.

"Being able to align the voyage with that work gives the whole project a deeper purpose.”

One in five children in the UK lives with a mental health challenge.

Through its nationwide network of funded projects, Children in Need provides vital early intervention offering counselling, safe spaces and trusted adult relationships that help children rebuild confidence, resilience and hope.