A statue of the much-loved character Paddington Bear, which had been reported missing from Southampton's Guildhall Square, has been located in a local park. The discovery comes days after the statue was reinstalled at its prominent city centre location, much to the delight of residents and visitors.
Reports of the statue's disappearance emerged earlier this week, prompting concern among community members. The bear, a familiar sight in the square, had only recently returned following a period away, making its subsequent absence particularly noticeable.
Upon its discovery in a nearby park, local authorities arranged for the statue's safe return. A police escort accompanied Paddington as it made its way back to Guildhall Square, ensuring its secure transit and re-establishment.
Details surrounding how the statue came to be in the park, and who may have been responsible for its relocation, have not yet been fully disclosed by law enforcement officials. Investigations are understood to be ongoing to ascertain the circumstances of the incident.
The statue is now back in its rightful place, continuing to welcome visitors to the Guildhall Square. This incident has highlighted the affection many hold for public art installations and the community's swift response to their disruption.