Bears Factfile

10 things you didn't know about Bears.

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Issue number 26
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  1. The name 'bear' comes from their ability, proportionate to body weight, to carry large quantities of stuff. Obviously though, not as much as the more commonly used beast of burden, the sheep.

  2. In 1578, a bear was elected as Lord Mayor of London, though this was due more to the political vote being split over multiple candidates rather than the bear's policies.

  3. Bearback riding is considered dangerous as the lack of saddle makes it much easier to slip off the bear.

  4. In 1579, the city of London gave away 1500 tons of marmalade through its 'Free Preserves for Bears' policy.

  5. Teddy Bears are so called because of their tendency to wear long jackets and drainpipe trousers in an echo of Edwardian fashions.

  6. In 1580, the incumbent Lord Mayor of London was thrown out as his policies had led to a large influx of 'undesirables'.

  7. 17.71% of bears are called Fred.

  8. Bears are a man's best friend, and that man is Mr Jeremy Peterson of 43 West Parkway, Luton.

  9. The Septem Bear heralded the coming of autumn by throwing conkers at children.

  10. For many long years, bears have struggled for their independence against a tyrannical regime. See also the Alpha Bears.
A regular monthly insight into the lives of our six-legged colleagues. Return to the top of the page. Return to the front cover. A selection of unintentional news stories.
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