A bear-y special statue has been unveiled in Newtownards, celebrating everyone’s marmalade-loving furry favourite.
More than 20 Paddington Bear statues are being installed on benches stretching across the UK — and yesterday the latest was shown off in Co Down.
The Paddington Visits trail has launched ahead of the beloved bear’s return to the big screen in Paddington in Peru, in cinemas on November 8.
From Liverpool to Land’s End to Birmingham to Bury St Edmunds, and of course, London Paddington, the Paddington statues have been popping up in cities, towns, and beauty spots this month.
Each meticulously crafted and painted statue sports the wise bear’s signature red hat, blue duffle coat, and, naturally, a marmalade sandwich in paw.
Watch: Paddington bear visits Newtownards on special Paddington Visits tour
Actor Hugh Bonneville, who plays Mr Brown in the new film, said: “I am thrilled to reveal we are going to be unveiling a number of benches across the UK, all featuring a statue of our beloved bear.
“Ahead of the new film, fans, families and friends can sit down and have a chat with the marmalade loving bear, so watch this space for more information about Paddington… coming to a bench near you!”
The new film will see Paddington return home to the Peruvian jungle to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy, now a resident at the Home for Retired Bears.
With The Brown Family and Mrs Bird in tow, adventure ensues when a mysterious disappearance plunges them into an unexpected journey.