A Noak Hill pub kept live bears in a cage in the garden as recently as the 1970s - here is how our readers remember it.
The Deers Rest in Noak Hill Road has been known by a number of names since its formation in the late 1600s.
It was initially named The Goat but was renamed to The Bear in 1715 and the pub became known for the live bear it kept caged in the garden in the 1960s and 70s.
The first bear to be kept at the pub was called Rani and she was believed to be a Himalayan black bear. A second animal called Honey was brought in years later.
The Bear, as the pub was known in this time, was greatly enlarged and special attractions were introduced.
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The story has it that in the 1950s Rose met a zoo owner named Fred in Harold Wood Hospital.
Rose acquired Rani from Fred and it was promptly exhibited in a cage in the rear of the beer garden.
"Rani and, sometime later, Honey, would be treated to a quart of brown ale and crisps after the customers had gone.
"Rani died of old age in 1974.
"When Ron and Rose retired, Honey was given to Cambridge Zoo."
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Several readers commented on our Facebook page this week sharing their memories of Honey the bear.
Paul Freeman wrote: "I remember my dad taking us there as kids. We used to feed the bear crisps. Peacocks walking around as well. Obviously seems cruel now looking back, but different times."
Karen Kilbourne shared: "Me too - was excited to see the bear, then as I got older I felt so upset… cruel and sad."
Martin Farquhar wrote: "I remember the bear! How times have changed, thankfully this would never be allowed today."
Elaine Aston remembered bringing Honey oranges.
She called it "beautiful but sad".
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