Introducing the loveable Golly character to you and the next generation of traditional toy lovers.

Florence Upton created the Golly back in 1895 for her childrens books. He was just one of a cast of toy characters but proved so popular, he became the main character in a series, "Golly and the Two Dutch Dolls". He was a colourful, kind, loving personality who had many appealing adventures with his doll friends.

Brigitte Rive and her husband Gareth create nostalgic soft collectable dolls. Brigitte Rive has worked alongside the internationally acclaimed Teddy Bear artist, Robin Rive for the past 12 years and this year has decided to create her own label. Brigittes "Collectable" gollies are designed and handmade in New Zealand

A message from Charlie ...

"Dear Friends,

Our 6th collection has been the easiest so far to create due to the fact we have had so much inspiration and design ideas from our friends of Charlie Bears. As we always promise we have tried again to make this collection as varied as possible to suit all our collectors wishes and I hope like me there are a few that have captured your heart. With 60 new designs I know that I have made your choice very difficult but I am sure as you browse through the pages that you will understand why I find it tricky to leave anyone behind.

The best friends club also this year is even more exciting with four new bears exclusively available to club members I hope you enjoy my selections.

William always cringes at this time of year as I sit in my chair and tick the pages of the bear brochures and create my bear wish list, I pass on copies to my family and friends and always leave one hanging around for William to find.n He always asks me "do you not think you have enough" and I always reply "there is always room for one more bear"

Happy Ticking, with love from Charlie xxx"

A personal message from Oliver Holmes, Grandson of the founder of Merrythought.

Dear Merrythought Enthusiast

We take the greatest of pleasure in introducing our 2008 range to you on this occasion as we consider that we have put together a range of "Handmade in England" products and collectables, which are second to none. The issue of numbers of this year’s collection may surprise some collectors. Quite simply in many instances we are using the number 78 (the number of years which Merrythought Limited has been manufacturing) and its derivatives. We are pleased to advise that all the goods described in this catalogue, save from those on the last four pages, are entirely handmade in our own factory in Ironbridge Shropshire England. We are also pleased to report that our local council has looked favourably now upon our recent application to use the recently "liberated" parts of our factory for alternate uses. We are intending to bring a great number of complimentary manufacturing and retailing skills "on board" within the next few months.

On Saturday 12th July 2008 we shall be holding our 12th Annual Open Day for our worldwide enthusiasts. Should you wish to attend then please be kind enough to email us on club@merrythought.co.uk and we will be delighted to let you have all the details of this popular event by email also. In the meantime we wish our retailers, collectors and all followers a most prosperous and fruitful 2008.

With all best wishes

Oliver Holmes

Grandson of the Founder

Check this range out, the 2007 Russ Berrie collection is now on-line.

Remember between our stores we have over 18,000 cuddlies in stock.

Select from bears, peepers, scented bears and much more.