J K Farnell & Co Ltd, a pioneer in British soft toy history, was the first British manufacturer of teddy bears and inspired A.A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh. Founded in the 19th century, it became the most respected soft toy maker in Britain, enjoying notable international success even in Germany. The company endured various challenges, including economic downturns and WWII, until its closure in 1970 due to market changes. Despite fading from public memory, Kathy Martin’s research brings the remarkable story of Farnell and its iconic teddy bears to light in her new book.
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