03 March 2025 , 07:08
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Residents of a Berkshire town have celebrated the return of a Paddington Bear statue after it was sliced in two and stolen overnight, police have said.
The sculpture, one of a number of Paddington statues dotted across the UK, was taken from a bench in Northbrook Street, Newbury, at about 02:00 GMT Sunday morning, according to Thames Valley Police.
Images from the crime scene show the statue had been sliced in half by vandals, with the front section taken by thieves.
Two people have since been arrested following the incident, and the Paddington statue is reportedly ‘heading to Newbury police station for a much-needed marmalade sandwich’.
The 22-year-old suspects, both men from Basingstoke remain in police custody on suspicion of theft and criminal damage.
Investigating officer Inspector Alan Hawkett, of the Neighbourhood Policing Team, based at Newbury police station, said: ‘The Paddington Bear statue is a beloved part of Newbury so we have been doing everything we can to locate it and the offenders.
‘I am delighted we have made two arrests and recovered the statue, which we will keep safe and support its restoration to its rightful place in Northbrook Street.’
The force said they would keep the sculpture safe and support its restoration.
Police have confirmed that Paddington is being taken care of (Picture: David Hartley)
News of Paddington’s recovery was treated with delight by the local townsfolk, who took to social media to express their relief.
Shona Smith said: ‘Thank you TVP for doing your upmost in what has been very heartbreaking for so many Newbury residents – glad to hear it wasn’t overlooked as a petty crime ….it has incensed so many.’
Another user, Joanne Lazarus, said: ‘Well done TVP – My 5 year old son’s been asking me for updates since afternoon and was really sad that it was gone . He will be thrilled to hear this in the morning. Thank you!’
‘Fantastic that Paddington is back in one piece and having marmalade sandwiches,’ said Rene Hardman.
Meanwhile, David Watson added: ‘Well done, was only a matter of time, now time to get them to pay and the people of newbury and Paddington want the apology .’