Rob Mankin, a 66-year-old resident of Salisbury, has achieved a remarkable feat by completing his Paddington Bear statue collection with a visit to Norwich. This dedicated bear enthusiast has traversed the United Kingdom, tracking down every statue of the beloved literary character created by Michael Bond.
Paddington’s journey from London to Norwich
The Paddington Bear statue trail has captured the hearts of many across the UK. Initiated to commemorate the release of “Paddington in Peru,” the third installment in the StudioCanal series, the trail has grown to include 24 statues nationwide. Norwich, beating out other contenders, secured the honor of hosting the latest addition to this whimsical collection.
The newest Paddington statue has found its home in a picturesque setting within the grounds of Norwich Cathedral. This charming installation features the marmalade-loving bear perched contentedly on a bench, inviting visitors to sit and share a moment with the iconic character.
The statues, meticulously placed by the team at Premier Comms, have transformed various locations into delightful attractions for fans of all ages. Each statue represents a unique aspect of Paddington’s character and the local flavor of its host city.
Rob Mankin’s bear-illiant adventure
Rob Mankin’s journey to visit all Paddington statues began in October 2024. Armed with determination and a trusty Ford Transit van, he embarked on a quest that would take him to the far corners of the British Isles. His efforts paid off when he became the first person to complete the Paddington Bear trail, visiting all 23 original statues.
However, just as Rob thought his mission was accomplished, the unveiling of the Norwich statue added an exciting new chapter to his adventure. Without hesitation, he set off to tick this latest bear off his list, showcasing his unwavering enthusiasm for the project.
Rob’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. He received a special invitation to attend the unveiling ceremony in Norwich, a testament to his status as the trail’s most committed follower. Reflecting on the experience, Rob shared, “It was an honor to be invited up to tick off the latest bear. Norwich is a lovely place and this statue is beautiful.”
Highlights of the Paddington trail
While each statue holds a special place in Rob’s heart, he admits to having favorites among the collection. Despite the charm of the Norwich installation, Rob’s top pick remains the statue in County Mayo, Ireland, which he describes as “stunning.”
The Paddington Visits trail offers a diverse range of experiences for statue hunters. Here are some notable aspects of the trail:
- Varied locations across the UK and Ireland
- Unique designs reflecting local culture
- Interactive elements encouraging visitor engagement
- Opportunities to explore new cities and landmarks
- A celebration of British literature and film
The success of the trail has not only delighted fans but also boosted tourism in participating cities. Local businesses have reported increased foot traffic, with visitors eager to combine their statue hunt with exploring nearby attractions.
Future expansions and unexpected twists
Just when Rob thought his Paddington quest had reached its conclusion, an exciting revelation awaited him. During his visit to Norwich, he received exclusive information about a 25th Paddington statue located in Peru, the bear’s fictional homeland.
This unexpected addition has reignited Rob’s adventurous spirit. “I thought I was done, but they told me there is a 25th statue in Peru!” he exclaimed. “I thought they had to make it hard for me, didn’t they? So the plan is to head out to Peru next year and tick it off.”
This international expansion of the Paddington trail opens up new possibilities for fans and travelers alike. It not only celebrates the character’s origins but also creates a global connection for Paddington enthusiasts.
| Location | Number of Statues | Year Added |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 23 | 2024 |
| Ireland | 1 | 2024 |
| Norwich, UK | 1 | 2025 |
| Peru | 1 | 2025 (Planned) |
The enduring appeal of Paddington Bear
The overwhelming success of the Paddington statue trail underscores the timeless charm of Michael Bond’s creation. Since his first appearance in 1958, Paddington has captivated audiences with his polite demeanor, love for marmalade sandwiches, and propensity for mishaps.
The character’s recent resurgence in popularity, fueled by successful film adaptations, has introduced Paddington to a new generation of fans. This renewed interest has not only driven the creation of the statue trail but also sparked a wider appreciation for British children’s literature.
As Rob Mankin prepares for his journey to Peru, his story serves as an inspiration to Paddington enthusiasts worldwide. It demonstrates how a beloved fictional character can bring joy, adventure, and a sense of community to people of all ages.
The Paddington Bear statue trail, with its ever-expanding reach, continues to unite fans across borders, proving that the spirit of kindness and adventure embodied by the small bear from Darkest Peru remains as relevant and cherished as ever.
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