30 April 2026
Southampton’s beloved Paddington Bear statue has returned to his spot in Guildhall Square.
Now back where he belongs tucking into his marmalade sandwich, Paddington has returned following some rest and recuperation in the GO! Southampton offices after being targeted by vandals.
Bench repairs were funded by local bank BB Merchants and its planters were spruced up by the Garden Society to get Paddington’s home in tip-top condition again.
One of 23 statues, Paddington first arrived in Southampton in October 2024 as part of a UK-wide trail celebrating the release of ‘Paddington in Peru’. Since then, he’s packed up his suitcase to travel to a new spot in Guildhall Square.
Executive Director of GO! Southampton Stephen Manion said: “It’s great to see Paddington Bear back in the heart of the city bringing joy to passers-by. We’ve seen lots of supportive comments online from those keen to have him back. It really shows just how much he means to the community.
“Paddington has become one of the city centre’s gems ever since he settled to tuck into his signature sandwich outside Westquay in 2024. I’d like to thank BB Merchants and the Garden Society for their support reinstating the statue to its former glory – he’s looking happier than ever!”
Neil Fillbrook, Group CEO, BB Merchant Services said: “I was saddened to hear of the vandalism to the bench, but rather than comment about how dreadful it was, as a locally based global employer, I 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.
That said, unlike Paddington, I prefer my marmalade shred-less and always told my dear departed mum to always “remove the worms!” So that’s where he and I differ slightly in our world outlook!”
PCSO Jimi Noyce, who is leading the investigation said: “The Paddington bench was a much‑loved feature in our community, and seeing it vandalised was hugely disheartening for many people. I’m really pleased to see Paddington returning to his rightful place now the bench has been restored. Our investigation into the damage remains ongoing as we continue to review CCTV and follow all available lines of enquiry to identify those responsible.”
