The teddy bear is a child’s most cherished playmate, but it is often neglected in terms of dining invitations.

So when the Eastern Goldfields YMCA held its teddy bears’ picnic on Friday, children jumped at the chance to bring their furry friends along.

More than 70 children attended the event with their toys, which ranged from the traditional teddy bear to toy sharks.

YMCA children’s services coordinator Kate Graham said there was something about the picnic which appealed to the children.

“I think the children love the opportunity to bring in their toys and show them off to other children, ” she said.