This poor old ted is feeling rather down in the mouth and in need of some tender loving care after being left in a Canvey dentist's surgery.

Staff at McGrath and Rothwell in Oak Road, found the lovable bear in the surgery about a year ago and have been looking after it ever since.

The bear, who has been named Tooth Ache, has been sitting among the toothbrushes in reception, waiting for his owner to come back and claim him.

Receptionist, Susan Barr, said: "We put him there so everyone can see him when they come in. He was probably left behind by a young child who came in for a check-up and we are living in hope that they come back soon and claim him.

"We have had a lot of people asking to 'adopt' the bear, but he must belong to someone. He will stay here with us until his rightful owner comes back and claims him."

Open wide - dental nurse Louise Gaunt, 23, gives Tooth Ache a checkup

Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

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