Paddington takes a seat in Mayo
EVERYONE’S favourite bear has taken a seat in Westport, as part of Paddington Visits, a far-reaching trail spanning the UK and Ireland.
Fans of all ages took a pew next to Paddington as Studiocanal unveiled a statue of the marmalade loving bear in the town.
A trail of Paddington Bear statues are being unveiled across the UK and Ireland to celebrate the forthcoming release of Paddington in Peru, arriving in cinemas on November 8, and Paddington was immediately embraced by the local community at the Mayo unveiling.
With passersby stopping for selfies, Westport is one of 23 locations taking part in Paddington Visits, a trail which will see the special statues appearing in cities, towns and beauty spots.
Westport's newest neighbour is a meticulously crafted and painted statue sporting the wise bear’s signature red hat, blue duffle coat, and, naturally, a marmalade sandwich in paw.
Families and children can embark on an adventure to find their local Paddington, with locations ranging from John O’Groats to Land’s End, Westport to London, and, of course, a very special stop in Newbury, the hometown of Paddington's creator, Michael Bond.
Studiocanal has teamed up with Ordnance Survey to help intrepid explorers discover Paddington in various locations in the UK and Ireland - head on over to Ordnance Survey’s website to learn more.
Speaking on the launch of Paddington Visits, a spokesperson from Studiocanal commented: “We are delighted to launch Paddington Visits, a trail which will see everyone’s favourite bear bringing fun, kindness and warmth to communities. We hope that 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!”
Paddington's new adventure sees him 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, a thrilling adventure ensues when a mysterious disappearance plunges them into an unexpected journey from the Amazon rainforest to the mountain peaks of Peru.