Design Teddy Bears Of Paul McCartney, Queen’s Brian May Up For Auction In UK

Paul McCartney and Queen guitarist Brian May are among the British celebrities who have designed special teddy bears that will be up for bid in an online auction to benefit the BBC Children in Need charity.  The organization provides support to disadvantaged children and young people across the U.K.

Each participating star came up with a personalized costume for one of Children in Need's Pudsey bear mascots.  The ex-Beatles legend's design was inspired by the outfit he wore on the cover of his old group's classic album Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.  As for May, his bear is dressed as a Renaissance-era astronomer, complete with a vintage telescope, reflecting the musician's love for astronomy.

Other stars who've designed Pudsey bears for the auction include singer Shirley Bassey, Coldplay and actresses Judy Dench, Helen Mirren and Joanna Lumley.

As of Wednesday afternoon, bidding was only open on three of the bears, including the one designed by May.  Bidding runs through November 16 at eBay.co.uk.  Visit BBC.co.uk for more information.