Paddington Bear's Return: Newbury's Icon Repaired and Rescued

Paddington Bear has returned to his bench in Newbury, England, after being vandalized last month. The repaired statue, which symbolizes joy in the community, was unveiled on Wednesday amid the pleasant spring weather.

 

In an uplifting reunion with his fans, Paddington Bear sits once again on his bench in Newbury, England, proudly donning his signature red bucket hat and blue coat. A label around his neck kindly instructs, “Please look after this bear.” On April 9, 2025, local officials celebrated the bear’s return, marking a heartening addition to the season's unusually beautiful springtime weather in Britain.

The statue, a beloved symbol for both children and adults, had previously been vandalized last month by two members of the British Royal Air Force. They left the statue in ruins, only its shell remaining. Following the event, a judge mandated that the perpetrators perform 150 hours of community service and contribute a total of £2,725 (roughly $3,500) for the restoration costs. This statue is part of an initiative that placed 23 Paddington figures across Britain and Ireland to coincide with the cinematic release of “Paddington in Peru.” However, the statue in Newbury carries a unique significance as it was created in honor of Michael Bond, the original author of the celebrated Paddington Bear series.

The two individuals responsible for the damage expressed their remorse for the vandalism, and with the bear’s restoration, the community feels a sense of closure. As Paddington’s wise aunty Lucy would say, "If we’re kind and polite, the world will be right." The residents of Newbury can now once again care for Paddington Bear, who leisurely enjoys a marmalade sandwich, continuing to spread joy throughout the community.