Paddington in Peru: Newbury chosen as one of the UK spots for a Paddington Bear statue to coincide with the launch on the new STUDIOCANAL film

Everyone’s favourite bear is coming to Newbury.

The town has been chosen as one of the UK spots where Paddington will be taking a seat later this year.

The visit will coincide with the launch of the beloved bear’s return to the big screen in STUDIOCANAL’S Paddington in Peru.

Paddington Visits sees the marmalade-loving bear statues installed at more than 20 locations across the country.

Each bear-y special statue will sport the wise bear’s signature red hat, blue duffle coat, and, naturally, a marmalade sandwich in paw.

And the arrival of Paddington in Newbury is extra special – as the town was where creator, Michael Bond, was born.

Mr Bond, who died in 2017, wrote his first short story while serving in the Middlesex Regiment in 1945.

But a lonely bear left on a shelf in Selfridge’s toy department on the Christmas Eve of 1956 led to the creation of one of the world’s most loved characters. In October 1958 the first Paddington adventure was published.

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

Actor Hugh Bonneville, who plays Mr Brown in the film, said: “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.

“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 in Peru is in cinemas from November 8 and will see 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.

It has not yet been revealed where in the town the statue will be.