A LIMITED edition Steiff bear, which could raise hundreds of pounds, has turned up in a box of donated goods at the Julia’s House Creekmoor shop.

The cute bear covered in black mohair stands 60cm tall and is number 55 in a limited edition of 1,000 bears produced by the famous German company in 2007. It is a replica of an original 1912 Mourning Bear produced to commemorate the Titanic disaster.

He has the traditional Steiff button in his ear, which includes his registration number, although he has no box or certificate. The Dorset children’s hospice charity is inviting bids and similar bears have sold for as much as £350.

“This is a real collector’s item,” said shop manager Tracy Stanley. “It is most definitely not a child’s toy, although it is lovely to think that it will raise money to help the children Julia's House supports.”

Sealed bids can be dropped off at the Creekmoor shop in the Neighbourhood Centre, Northmead Drive or emailed to creekmoor@juliashouse.org with “Steiff bid” in the subject box.

Bidding will close on Saturday April 26.