As part of the city’s Year of Reading, Liverpool City Council and its #LiverpoolReads partners have teamed up with publishers Walker Books to set up a bear hunt, inspired by the children’s classic ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ by Michael Rosen.

There are lots of bears coming to Liverpool and the council needs businesses to come forward to be hiding places for the bears.

Throughout August, businesses across the city are being asked to display cut-outs of the book’s famous bear, as drawn by illustrator Helen Oxenbury, for youngsters to find throughout the summer holidays.

Businesses that would like to join in the fun should complete the form on the Bear Hunt’s webpage – www.liverpoolyearofreading.co.uk – to be sent a resource pack.

Youngsters who spot 10 bears can then get an e-certificate to mark their achievement.

When children spot a bear, a grown-up will need to take a photo of them with the ursine interloper. When they have photographs of themselves with bears in ten different places they will then need to complete the form on www.liverpoolyearofreading.co.uk to receive their certificate.

Bear spots can also be shared on social media using #LiverpoolBearHunt to help other bear spotters in their quest.

Bear spotting is open until 31 August and children can apply for their certificates until 12 September.

#LiverpoolReads is running throughout 2020 and aims to get everyone in the city picking up a book for fun.

Jane Winterbotham, publishing director, Walker Books, says: “We’re delighted that Liverpool will be hosting Michael and Helen’s Bear Hunt now that lockdown has ended.

“We’re sure that the bear will get a warm Liverpool welcome and we know that he is happy to be lending a helping paw to Liverpool’s Year of Reading.

“Best of luck with spotting – he’s popping up all across the city so you need to find him everywhere he goes!”

Main Image © 1989 Helen Oxenbury

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