Paddington statues pop up on new trail

Have you spotted a certain marmalade sandwich-loving bear near where you live?

With the release of Paddington in Peru just around the corner, the company that creates the films STUDIOCANAL have put up statues of the much-beloved character across the UK and Ireland.

From Liverpool to Land's End, fans can sit on a bench and get photos with Paddington munching on his favourite snack.

It's part of a project called Paddington Visits, in which a trail of statues is being used to celebrate the upcoming release of the third instalment in the Paddington franchise, in November.

Paddington enjoying a marmalade sandwich at Land's End, almost the southern most point of the UK

On Monday 7 October, Paddington was brought to Liverpool, Chester, Land's End, Sunderland and Cardiff.

And even more have been put up: in Newbury (where Paddington's creator Michael Bond was born), Bury, Manchester, John O’Groats, London Westfield and, of course, London Paddington railway station.

There will be 23 locations on the trail overall.

StudioCanal has teamed up with Ordnance Survey to make a map so fans can travel around the UK and Ireland visiting them all.

Paddington is proving very popular in Cardiff, too

A spokesperson for STUDIOCANAL said: “We are delighted to launch Paddington Visits, a trail which will see everyone’s favourite bear bringing fun, kindness and warmth to communities across the UK.

"We hope that everyone seeks out their local Paddington, whether that’s dropping by for a chat about your day or to enjoy a marmalade sandwich or two while enjoying the view!

"Paddington is ready to welcome everyone!"