Paddington statue returns home after vandalism

A statue of Paddington Bear has been returned to its rightful spot after being targeted by vandals.

Paddington's bench in central Southampton was destroyed earlier this month leaving him with nowhere to sit.

But the much-loved bear who "became one of city centre's gems" is back in Guildhall Square, tucking into his marmalade sandwich, after the efforts of local businesses.

Stephen Manion, executive director of GO!Southampton, said: "It's great to see Paddington Bear back in the heart of the city bringing joy to passers-by."

The local branch of bank BB Merchants funded the bench repairs, while its planters were given a fresh lease of life by Southampton business, The Garden Society.

BB Merchants' Neil Fillbrook said the company wanted to "offer tangible help".

"As Paddington would say: 'If you're kind and polite, the world will be right.'

"I'm with the righteous bear on this and it's such an important message that resonates today more so than ever before," he added.

Police are continuing to investigate the vandalism and are reviewing CCTV footage.

Go!Southampton - the Business Improvement District organisation for the city centre - is responsible for the 3ft 6in statue and had been looking after him in its offices while the bench was restored.

The Paddington statue originally arrived in Southampton in 2024 as part of the UK-wide trail celebrating the release of the film Paddington in Peru.

It was originally placed outside Westquay shopping centre but later moved to Guildhall Square.