Straw needed to help bear revival

The Straw Bear festival is planned for 9 October

Hopes of reviving an ancient ritual are in danger of being dashed - by a shortage of straw.

Villagers in North Muskham, Nottinghamshire, want to construct a 6ft-high straw bear costume for the revival of the rite.

The "bear" is paraded through the streets in chains before the straw is burnt following a day of celebrations.

But organiser David Haslam says they are struggling to find enough straw for the event because of the wet weather.

He hopes a farmer will donate the straw for the bear costume, which is being designed and made by a local craftswoman.

"One of my friends has drawn the short straw and has to wear the costume," Mr Haslam said.

"We really need a farmer who has some long straw."

The Muskham Pinkies cycle club are hoping the event will take place on the weekend of 9 October.