It's not going to be a teddy bear's picnic for one adventurous bear who is aiming to travel 1,000 miles across the country for charity.

Monty the teddy bear is taking part in a nationwide challenge to help Claremont Group Interiors beat more than 100 other companies to raise the most money for a children's hospice.

The travelling ted began his journey at the company's Fareham office where he underwent a week of military manoeuvres in a bid to reach the target of £20,000.

Colleagues from the office refurbishment company will help Monty every step of the way, finding new and exciting ways to travel until he reaches his final destination - Merseyside, where the Claire House Hospice is based.

Paul Gotobed, who put Monty through his paces with the TA, said: "Having Monty undertake some manoeuvres with the TA added yet another dimension to his journey."

Ann Clarke, company director, said: "Staff in all three of our offices have wanted to get involved, which has been great and we are hopeful that we can achieve our target of £20,000."

Check on Monty's progress at www.claremontgi.com/monty.