Welcome to the Red or Ted website – a shop window for the quality hand made bears of Lesley Cope  and home of Red or Ted Vintage Bears.

Red or Ted is the business name for the work of bear artist Lesley Cope (ably assisted by her music teacher husband - Andy) and is based in the heart of the Staffordshire Moorlands. Here, the world of bear artistry, bear fashion and popular music combine to influence the creation of traditional, contemporary and cool designs. From within the thriving artistic community of our small market town - Leek, each item is skilfully created  in a smoke and pet free environment using the finest materials and intricate detail.

All Red or Ted bears and animals are collectors' items and therefore not suitable for young children. Most are ‘one of a kind’ although commissions are welcome for a similar piece if you see an adopted bear / animal that you would like recreated.  All bears and animals come with a signed certificate of authenticity.

Red or Ted presents two categories – ‘One of a Kind Bears’ and a new and developing range called 'Wannabe Bears'. Regardless of their category, each bear has a name drawn from the world of pop, rock, blues or heavy metal. In fact, the Wannabe bears are more specific to the world of music because they dress and style themselves on their heroes!

Red or Ted Vintage presents quality bears and animals from past decades and various parts of the world. Most Red or Ted Vintage Bears are given adopted names drawn from the world of classical and Jazz music.

Our current stock includes bears by Steiff, Hermann, Schuco, Clemens, Fechter, Schwicka, Richard Diem, Chiltern, Merrythought, Dean's, Chad Valley  and more. Check the Vintage Bears button for regular updates - many more to be added soon!

Red or Ted at Established Fairs. We also sell at a number of established Antiques and Collectibles fairs and Bear fairs. To see where we are next click on the link at the top of the page or on the photo Right. The photo was taken at our local fair at the Pavilion Gardens, Buxton. 

Enjoy browsing the galleries and please feel free to e-mail with any questions or comments.

Last Updated 10 November 2008

All images ©2007-2008 Lesley Cope and may not be reproduced without permission