Voytek the soldier bear 'heading for Hollywood'

HOLLYWOOD could be beckoning for Voytek, the soldier bear and famous former resident of Edinburgh Zoo, it emerged today.

Film studios are said to be interested in the incredible story of the bear, who 'fought' alongside Polish troops during the Second World War.

Voytek is renowned for passing ammunition and shells to his comrades during the battle for Monte Cassino in Italy, as well as enjoying both a bottle of beer and a cigarette.

He was officially enlisted by the Second Polish Transport Company to keep him in their unit, giving him a name, rank and number.

The 250lb bear came to Scotland with the troops when, at the end of the war, they were billeted in Berwickshire.

Voytek became a legend among local people and when the Polish camp was closed down he was moved to the Corstorphine zoo, where he died in 1963.

Now Berwickshire woman Aileen Orr, who is campaigning for a permanent memorial to Voytek in the county, has revealed that film producers are interested in his story.

Mrs Orr, who is advisor to Scottish Environment Minister Mike Russell MSP, said: "I have had several phone calls from a Hollywood production company about it.

"I have been asked to keep the details secret, but it does look like he is going to be the subject of a film."

The unnamed American producer involved has reportedly confirmed his interest in the project.

He said: "This story has blown me away. I am of Polish extraction and my family have confirmed the story of Voycek.

"My people first saw it on the BBC website, and it seemed too good to miss. We are all excited by it and it is on top of my in-tray now.

"Aileen has pressured me to make some of this film in Scotland and I am intending to fly over to see his old home for myself."