Paddington Bear Statue Hunt: Could YOUR Town Win a Marmalade-Loving Monument?

Following the resounding success of the Paddington Visits trail, which saw 23 charming Paddington Bear statues grace towns and cities across the UK and Ireland in October, Studiocanal has launched a captivating competition to find a home for the 24th statue. This delightful competition comes hot on the heels of the release of “Paddington in Peru,” the latest adventure of the beloved marmalade-loving bear.

The Quest for Paddington's Next Home

The competition invites communities across the UK and Ireland to participate in a heartwarming contest that will give one lucky location the honor of welcoming Paddington to their streets. The meticulously crafted statue, complete with Paddington's signature red hat, blue duffle coat, and a marmalade sandwich tucked safely in his paw, promises to be a delightful addition to any town or city. The public is encouraged to craft a compelling message to Paddington, highlighting what makes their community so unique and special, and why it would be the perfect location for the statue.

A Nationwide Phenomenon

The Paddington Visits trail has already proven immensely popular, drawing crowds from across the country. The existing statues have generated incredible community engagement, with fans taking selfies in locations ranging from the iconic signpost at John O’Groats to the scenic charm of County Mayo. Communities near and far have expressed their affection for the beloved bear, proving the immense appeal of Paddington Bear.

Aberdeen's Bid for Paddington

Aberdeen, with its blend of historical landmarks and vibrant culture, is a contender in this exciting competition. Many believe that the city offers a plethora of perfect spots that would befitting of the marmalade-loving bear. Could Paddington be seen finding his new home outside Marischal College or perhaps enjoying a quiet moment in Duthie Park or the charming Union Terrace Gardens?

Scotland's Paddington Presence

An Aberdeen win would add to Scotland’s existing Paddington presence, which currently includes statues in John O’Groats, Lanark High Street, and St. Andrew Square in Edinburgh. The addition of a Paddington statue to the Granite City would further amplify Scotland's vibrant Paddington presence. The city's rich history, diverse landmarks, and welcoming community make a compelling case for Paddington's next adventure.

Doncaster's unique Paddington connection

Doncaster, meanwhile, boasts a unique connection to Paddington, extending far beyond the current competition. For 65 years, British-born writer Michael Bond has delighted readers worldwide with his captivating tales of Paddington, the bear from Peru, whose love of marmalade is rivaled only by his politeness. Paddington's adventures have been adapted for television and the big screen several times, further cementing his global status. Interestingly, Doncaster was home to the only British factory to produce Paddington Bear soft toys! This connection adds another layer of intrigue to the competition.

A Family Affair

The story of Doncaster's Paddington connection involves Shirley Clarkson, mother of renowned TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson. Shirley, inspired by Michael Bond's book, A Bear Called Paddington, conceived the idea of creating a Paddington Bear toy for her children, Jeremy and his sister Joanna. This endeavor, started at her kitchen table, led to the establishment of the Bear Garden factory in Adwick, Doncaster, which, under the name Gabrielle Designs, produced countless Paddington bears until 1998. The Clarksons developed a close friendship with Michael Bond, even influencing the iconic wellington boots Paddington wears, as Dunlop struggled to meet the mass production demands of the toy bears.

The Marmalade Verdict

The competition is open until January 5, 2025. To enter, simply visit www.paddingtoninperu.co.uk/paddington-visits, share your name, location, and a message explaining why your community is the perfect fit for Paddington. Studiocanal will announce the winning location in January of next year, adding another chapter to the captivating Paddington Visits trail. The lucky winner will not only gain a charming statue, but will also significantly contribute to the rich tapestry of Paddington's adventures. The winning town will become a part of a cherished national legacy, a testament to Paddington’s enduring charm and the warmth of the communities that embrace him. The locations of the existing Paddington statues, spanning the UK and Ireland, are readily available on Ordnance Survey’s interactive map. This map allows Paddington fans to easily find the nearest statue, take photos, and engage in the joy of the Paddington Visits trail.