'Pudsey Bear' refused a passport

'Pudsey Bear' in passport fight A woman who has changed her identity to that of BBC Children in Need mascot Pudsey Bear is fighting to get a passport issued under her new name. The dental receptionist, 37, from Denbighshire was told by officials her new name was "frivolous" and could also bring her problems at border controls. She said her two daughters called her "Mummy Bear" and she was Mrs Bear on her driving licence and bank cards. She has approached her MP Chris Ruane, who said he will raise the matter. (link via BBC News) For those of you don't know, Pudsey Bear (a yellow bear with a red spotted bandage) is the popular mascot and Children in Need's official logo. BBC - Children in Need is a registered charity that donates money towards projects helping disadvantaged children in the UK. When I first read this news, I thought how ridiculous for her to change her name to 'Pudsey Bear' and to expect a passport in her new name, and then to get her MP involved when I think MPs must have more important matters to contend with. However, after thinking about it more, she has legally changed her name so it should be accepted. I think she should be given a passport in her legal name (even if it does seem like a silly name). What do you think?

Rescued chickens kitted out with handknit jumpers (sweaters)

This is a sweet story about how a Norfolk woman who rescued 1,500 balding battery chickens has had a woolly jumper knitted for each of them to protect them from the cold. many stressed out battery farm birds lose their plumage so Mrs Eglen turned to her local community in December asking for people willing to knit jumpers for the bedraggled birds. (link via telegraph.co.uk) If you would like to help out by knitting a jumper (pattern is on their website) or information about adopting a hen: Little Hen Rescue Centre See video of chickens in knitted jumpers Related post from my blog: Buffy the well dressed chicken

Gardener creates giant plum pudding out of conifer

A couple from Somerset have transformed a 20ft (6m) conifer into a Christmas pudding complete with cream and illuminated holly berries on top. (link via BBC News) The tree in Roger and Valerie Holley's front garden in Yeovil is spreading the festive cheer to passers-by. I love it! What a clever, creative gardener!