Dawlish Community Transport, a charity that offers transport to medical appointments and regular ring-and-ride services, has introduced a new mascot called 'Travelling Ted'. 

It is hoped the stuffed bear will inspire confidence in those hesitant to get out and about.

A spokesperson for Dawlish Community Transport said: "From a sad little Ted with nothing but a little scarf, to a vibrant, well-dressed, fun-loving Ted he now is, he's been growing his confidence over the last couple of months doing tiny steps getting to know passengers and our vehicles.  

"He is now having a jolly good time on the minibus trips and enjoying his monthly bingo sessions, aboard our bingo bus.

"He wants to share his story of how Dawlish Community Transport has enabled him to go out, meet new friends, do his shopping, banking, get to the post office and visit the doctor and most of all have a great time out visiting lovely places in Devon."

Travelling Ted has a passport and travel journal to be stamped and filled in on his travels.

An elaborate life story has also been written for the bear (see below).

Click here to find out more about what Dawlish Community Transport has to offer.