THERE was a big surprise for visitors to a mobile library when they held a teddy bear picnic.

Children bought along their bears for a drink and a story at the stop in the village hall at Theydon Bois.

Organised by Loughton Library and Brambles Children's Centre in Epping the aim of the touring bus is to serve communities where there are no libraries close by.

Group Manager at Loughton Library Karen Prentice said: “It went really well and the children and parents had a lovely time. This was the first time we had tried it out and I'm sure we will do it again because it was such a success.”