Illustrations from Bears of England by Mick Jackson

'An old man died. At dawn, bread and ale was put out, according to convention.' Photograph: David Roberts

'At dusk the widow got to her feet and went and looked out of the window — was, in fact, about to fetch the bread and ale, when she saw a figure coming down the lane.' Photograph: David Roberts

'When the bear finished with the bread it brushed its paws together, to clean the crumbs off.' Photograph: David Roberts

'It came clattering through the graveyard, knocking over several stones and markers on its way.' Photograph: David Roberts

'The bear woke to find itself charging through the forest.' Photograph: David Roberts