A new Paddington bench has been unveiled in Lanark, capturing the hearts of school pupils, families, and residents. The hand-painted sculpture and bench, situated in the town centre on High Street, welcomed an enthusiastic crowd this week. Pupils from various local schools, along with families and town-centre visitors, gathered to witness the unveiling of the beloved character, making it a popular addition to the area.
Youngsters brought their Paddington toys to the new landmark and enjoyed a special Paddington storytime on the bench. South Lanarkshire provost Margaret Cooper, who conducted the unveiling, even shared marmalade sandwiches with the attendees. The statue bench, crafted by film company Studio Canal, is part of a nationwide trail of 23 benches across the UK and Ireland. Lanark’s installation is one of three in Scotland, symbolising unity and joy within communities.
The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download for the latest news updates from the area, including features, entertainment, sport, and recovery efforts post-pandemic. The initiative, titled Paddington Visits, aims to bring fun and warmth to communities through the beloved bear. Visitors are encouraged to sit with Paddington for a chat, enjoy a marmalade sandwich, or write a postcard to Aunt Lucy.
During the ceremony, provost Margaret Cooper unveiled Paddington, alongside town crier announcements, as pupils and residents gathered around the statue. Families and passers-by quickly embraced the new visitor attraction, taking selfies and delighting in the community spirit. Studio Canal expressed their joy at the warm reception Paddington received and highlighted the significance of fostering connections within communities.
The company’s collaboration with Ordnance Survey for the project aims to engage explorers in discovering Paddington across different UK and Ireland locations. The Lanark bench is part of the promotion for the upcoming movie “Paddington in Peru,” set for release in cinemas on November 8. The storyline features Paddington’s return to his Peruvian jungle home, embarking on a new adventure with familiar faces.
Paddington’s gracious presence in Lanark has charmed residents and visitors alike, embodying the spirit of togetherness and community joy. The bench serves as a beacon of unity and shared experiences, inviting people of all ages to connect with the beloved bear. Residents and organisers look forward to many more happy moments spent alongside Paddington in the heart of Lanark town centre.