Shailesh Vara MP attended the Pidley International Teddy Bear Freefall Parachute Championships Competition at the weekend. Also attending was county and district councillor, Steve Criswell and former local professional boxer, Dave 'Boy' Green.

Run by Huntingdonshire charity Pidley Mountain Rescue Team, the event has been a huge success for the last 20 years with many thousands of pounds having been raised for disabled people in the local community. And this year's fundraising efforts were no exception, with over £4,500 being raised on the day.

The charity was founded more than 30 years ago and it supplies specialist equipment for both adults and children with disabilities in the local community. The Team's aims are to improve the quality of life for those living with disabilities and to raise awareness of their needs amongst local residents.

The Teddy Bear Freefall was held at Rookery Farm, Pidley, and was kindly hosted by farmer Kelvin German. All those attending enjoyed a fun-filled day with refreshments and games being available for children.

Following the event, Mr Vara said:

"The Teddy Bear Freefall was great fun for the whole family and it is a great way of raising money for charity.

Praise must go to the organising committee who put in a huge amount of effort to stage the event and it would simply not be possible to run it without the wonderful generosity of host, Kelvin German, and the Cambridge Aero Club whose planes are used for the drop.

I was really pleased to take part in raising money for such a worthwhile cause and I wish the charity every success for the future."

Pidley Mountain Rescue Team Chair, Katie Renwick, added:

"We were really pleased to have Shailesh Vara join us on Saturday for our 20th Pidley International Teddy Bear Freefall Competition and trust he enjoyed his time with us!

He kindly undertook a key activity for the event in choosing the top three 'Best Dressed Teds' as well as meeting the committee and some of those attending and supporting the event.

Our charity is focused on providing specialist support and equipment that aids mobility or improves independence in our community of Huntingdonshire. Our average 'rescue' costs £1,000 and as such the funds raised on Saturday will go a tremendous way to help us continue to support those in need."

Local councillor, Steve Criswell said:

"Once again the small band of Pidley Mountain Rescue Team volunteers have pulled out all the stops to provide a super event and raise a lot of money to help local people in need. Congratulations and huge thanks to all those involved."