Darwen neighbourhood policing team will be running their second Teddy Bear’s picnic in Whitehall Rose Garden next week.

Officers and staff will be there and you’re invited to join them for an afternoon of fun learning and scrumptious food on Friday, August 26 from 11am to 2pm.

Police community support officer John Kirk and the team will be running the event to engage with local children aged between two and ten, on the importance of staying safe, water safety, and other age-appropriate crime prevention such as "stranger danger".

Their first event was well-attended, with more than 30 children gathering at the gardens where they could see the gardening club, speak with the team and try on some police uniforms.

Children are asked to bring a teddy with them to join the team on an adventurous treasure hunt through the magical rose garden where they’ll have to spot the teddy bear and work together as a team.

Once they’ve worked up an appetite, the kids will all sit down together to enjoy a sandwich or two (remember, Paddington likes marmalade), and play some games.

The team will provide cupcakes and jellies for the children, but parents are asked to bring their own sandwiches for the little ones. Unfortunately, they are unable to cater for any dietary requirements.

Children are encouraged to ask questions about policing, how they keep them safe, and of course, have a good time. No sign-up is necessary, just turn up and have fun.