EVER fancied having a chat with Paddington Bear?

Well, the people of Salisbury will soon get the chance, when a new attraction heads to the city next month.

To promote the new film, Paddington in Peru, a trail of statues will be set up in towns and cities across the UK and Ireland, giving people the chance to spend some time with everyone’s favourite bear-based character.

No dates have yet been confirmed for the statue’s arrival in Salisbury.

“Each meticulously crafted and painted statue will sport the wise bear’s signature red hat, blue duffle coat, and, naturally, a marmalade sandwich in paw,” a spokesperson said.

“Fans, friends, and family can step into Mr Gruber’s shoes, sit with Paddington for a spot of tea, a sandwich or two, or even write a postcard to Aunt Lucy.”

Actor Hugh Bonneville, who plays Mr Brown in the film, announced the trail.

“I am thrilled to reveal we are going to be unveiling a number of benches across the UK, all featuring a statue of our beloved bear,” he said.

“Ahead of the new film, fans, families and friends can sit down and have a chat with the marmalade-loving bear, so watch this space for more information about Paddington…coming to a bench near you.”

Paddington Visits launches ahead of the bear’s latest cinematic outing, Paddington in Peru, which lands in UK cinemas on November 8.

The latest cinematic adventure sees Paddington return home to the Peruvian jungle to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy, now a resident at the Home for Retired Bears.

With The Brown Family and Mrs Bird in tow, a thrilling adventure ensues when a mysterious disappearance plunges them into an unexpected journey from the Amazon rainforest to the mountain peaks of Peru.

Salisbury is one of a raft of locations being visited by a Paddington statues.

The full list is:
• Ashby
• Birmingham
• Bury St Edmunds
• Cardiff
• Chester
• County Mayo
• Edinburgh
• John O’ Groats
• Lanark
• Land’s End
• Liverpool
• London Paddington
• London Westfield
• Manchester
• Newbury
• Newtownards
• Penrith
• Peterborough
• Reading
• Salisbury
• Southampton
• Sunderland
• York

The attraction has been organised by Wiltshire Council, with Salisbury BID, in association with film company, Studio Canal.

Richard Clewer, leader of the council, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Studio Canal and Salisbury BID to bring Paddington to Salisbury as part of the UK and Ireland Paddington Visits Trail.

“This beloved bear will be a wonderful addition to the city, bringing joy to both residents and tourists and enhancing Salisbury’s vibrant cultural appeal.”

Ellie Burke, marketing and communications manager of Salisbury BID, added: “We’re thrilled to be part of the Paddington Visits trail, and have been working hard with Wiltshire Council and Studio Canal to bring this beloved icon to the heart of Salisbury.

“Paddington’s visit will not only draw fans of all ages to our city but also provide a fun and memorable way to explore Salisbury’s heritage and vibrant community. It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase what our local businesses and city has to offer.”