Paddington, has returned to his beloved Platform 1 at London Paddington station.
The Paddington Bear statue was temporarily relocated from under the clock arch to the other side of the station when the Elizabeth line opened earlier this year. This was necessary for safety reasons as the statue’s former home is now an evacuation route.
The much-loved statue, which is owned by the Paddington Bear shop in The Lawn at London Paddington station, has been a mainstay at the station for many years and has become somewhat of an attraction for families, fans, and international visitors alike.
Following calls for this star attraction to be relocated nearer to his original spot – led by respected property, travel and lifestyle TV presenter and journalist, Martin Roberts – Network Rail’s station team sought a new location and secured a fitting spot next the clock on Platform 1, much to the delight of Paddington Bear’s many loyal supporters.
Plans are also afoot to secure the prized Paddington Bear statue an even more prominent position at London Paddington, with a permanent spot nearer to the main station concourse.
Susan Evans, Network Rail’s Head of Stations and Passenger Experience, said: “We are pleased to have found our beloved Paddington Bear statue a new, temporary spot pride of place next to the clock on Platform 1 following Martin’s passionate approach to us to find the statue an alternative position.
“The Paddington Bear statue is synonymous with our London Paddington station and we are working on identifying a new prominent permanent position for him nearer to the main station concourse. This will undoubtedly be welcome news to the many Paddington Bear supporters as well as enhancing the experience of our passengers, particularly those with young children. We look forward to providing an update on these plans in due course.”
Martin Roberts said: “For years I’ve made a point of saying ‘Hello!’ to Paddington whenever I’ve passed through the station. I was horrified when I discovered the location he’d been moved to – by the side of a cafe in an area used for smoking. And although I learned it was only temporary it was still a terrible spot for the thousands of people who come to visit to enjoy their moments with this special statue to a very special bear.
“I vented my outrage with a ‘hard stare’ on social media, and thousands shared my concerns – including Hugh Bonneville (who played Mr Brown in the Paddington films). Thankfully Network Rail’s station team at London Paddington were brilliant and took action. I’m over the moon to see Paddington back where he belongs and I shall be celebrating with a large marmalade sandwich, of course.”
Photo credit: Network Rail
