CAREFULLY crafted teddy bears were handed out to police cars in Bracknell for police officers to use when a child is in distress.

The hand knitted bears, known as Trauma Teddies were made by members from Chavey Down Women's Institute and were presented to police community support officers (PCSO) Alice Riddiford and Sophie Bell.

PCSO Alice Riddiford based at Bracknell and Wokingham police station, said: "The trauma teddies have been disseminated to Bracknell and Loddon Valley Police station for officers to take out to jobs where children have been affected by a traumatic experience.

"We are very grateful to the Women's Institute and the ladies in the craft group for their thoughtful gesture. The teddies will be of great use to members of the community." 

In total 45 bears were made and will aim to help relax children who are in distress in a police emergency or crisis.

Jacky Young, coordinator of the project, said: "The craft group had particularly enjoyed the project as the teddies will be used in the local community by Thames Valley Police."