Paddington Bear never seems to stop growing in popularity, does he? After starting life on the page he’s appeared on the big screen, countless television adaptations, and even alongside the late Queen of England for this year’s jubilee celebrations. Oh, and he made it to two 50p coins back in 2019.
In short, he’s become a bit of a hero around these parts — so much so that Paddington Station even decided to cast everyone’s favourite marmalade sandwich-loving character in bronze back in 2000.
Designed by sculptor Marcus Cornish, the statue is owned by the Paddington Bear shop at the station, and is quite the photo opportunity for many a passer through.
Only recently, something has been afoot. When the Elizabeth line arrived at the station, Paddington had to move from his former location to accommodate the line – and some people really didn’t Paddington’s relocated home.
Thankfully, the bear is back in the limelight, with a first class upgrade to a prime platform one position at the station after a social-media plea led by presenter and journalist Marin Roberts. Plus, Paddington has been promised a new spot in the middle of the station when the powers that be at the station can make it happen!
Speaking to the Evening Standard, Roberts said: “To my horror, a few months ago I discovered the Paddington Bear statue had been moved to a really dark, dingy corner on the other side of the station.
“Something had to be done, and lots of people supported my viewpoint, including Hugh Bonneville, who played Mr Brown in the Paddington Bear films…
“…Thankfully Network Rail’s station team at London Paddington were brilliant and took action. I’m over the moon to see Paddington back where he belongs and I shall be celebrating with a large marmalade sandwich, of course.”