Paddington Bear statue unveiled on Newbury high street
Newbury has a new resident. A statue of Paddington Bear sitting on a bench has been unveiled in the town centre.
This week, 23 statues of the marmalade loving bear will be unveiled from John O’Groats to Land's End ahead of the forthcoming film Paddington in Peru, in cinemas from November 8.
But this one is special, being located in the hometown of Paddington's creator, Michael Bond.
Mayor of Newbury Andy Moore unveiled the statue in Northbrook Street today (Tuesday) to a crowd of keen onlookers.
He said: “I think this is a brilliant innovation.
“We’re just really delighted to see him here. It is a big benefit to the high street.”
A spokesperson for STUDIOCANAL, the studio behind the new film, added: “We are delighted to launch Paddington Visits, a trail which will see everyone’s favourite bear bringing fun, kindness and warmth to communities across the UK.
“We hope everyone seeks out their local Paddington, whether that’s dropping by for a chat about your day or to enjoy a marmalade sandwich or two while enjoying the view.
“Paddington is ready to welcome everyone."
This new sequel will see Paddington return home to the Peruvian jungle to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy, now a resident at the Home for Retired Bears.
But a thrilling adventure ensues when a mysterious disappearance plunges them into an unexpected journey from the Amazon rainforest to the mountain peaks of Peru.
The painted statue in Newbury sports the wise bear’s signature red hat, blue duffle coat and, naturally, a marmalade sandwich in his paw.
“Paddington is a much-loved character which will bring joy and excitement to visitors of all ages and provide a unique landmark for the town centre,” added Louise Sturgess (Lib Dem, Newbury General), portfolio holder for economic development and regeneration at West Berkshire Council.
Newbury BID chairman Warwick Heskins added: "Newbury BID is excited to welcome home Paddington.
“We are looking forward to the national and international tourism offer that Paddington will bring to our town.”
STUDIOCANAL teamed up with Ordnance Survey to help explorers discover Paddington in various locations in the UK and Ireland.
Other locations on the trail include Broad Street, Reading; Connaught Village, London Paddington and Westquay Shopping Centre, Southampton.
Visit https://getoutside.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/Paddington-visits/ to see the full list of locations with statues.