As many of you know, we had a special VIP guest on site in Chengdu at the end of May – the amazing actress Lesley Nicol who plays the wonderfully popular cook, Mrs Patmore, in Downton Abbey, and her super lovely husband Da'aboth. Lesley's visit comes shortly after fellow Downton Abbey actor Peter Egan was on site, also showing his support for the bears.

More about Lesley’s visit later this month – when I’ll also be able to share with you a fabulous story about her time at our sanctuary which will soon feature in a big media publication.

For now, our endless thanks to her and Da'aboth for popping over to see the bears - for literally just a few days - while Lesley was having a quick break from filming.

Those few days saw tears of joy and sadness shed in equal measure, bears thoroughly adored and spoiled, and the whole staff (not to mention resident dogs and cats) falling in love with you both.

Here's a funny pic of Lesley and me caught unawares by the camera.