A statue of everyone’s favourite bear is set to be taking a seat in Penrith and other locations across the UK and Ireland in early October
More than 20 Paddington statues will be installed on benches stretching from John o’ Groats to Land’s End ahead of the beloved bear’s return to the big screen in Paddington in Peru, which is set to come to cinemas on 8th November.
Penrith – the home of the World Famous Marmalade Awards at Dalemain, where Paddington is a regular visitor — is the only Cumbrian location chosen to host a Paddington bench, with other northern locations including John o’ Groats, Liverpool, Manchester and York.
Film-makers Studiocanal this week officially announced production for Paddington Visits, a trail of Paddington Bear statues coming to cities, towns, and beauty spots across the UK.
Each statue has been meticulously crafted and painted and each statue will sport the wise bear’s signature red hat, blue duffle coat, and, naturally, a marmalade sandwich in paw.
Fans, friends, and family can step into Mr Gruber’s shoes, sit with Paddington for a spot of tea, a sandwich or two, or even write a postcard to Aunt Lucy!
Actor Hugh Bonneville, who plays Mr Brown in the film, comments: “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 film Paddington in Peru is a new adventure which will see Paddington return home to the Peruvian jungle to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy — who is by now a resident at the Home for Retired Bears. With The Brown Family and Mrs Bird in tow, a thrilling adventure ensues when a mysterious disappearance plunges them into an unexpected journey from the Amazon rainforest to the soaring mountain peaks of Peru.
