In a troubling incident in Newbury, two Royal Air Force engineers, Daniel Heath and William Lawrence, both aged 22, vandalised a beloved statue of Paddington Bear, the iconic fictional character created by Michael Bond. The pair, who were intoxicated at the time, were captured on surveillance footage kicking and pulling at the statue until it broke in half. They then transported the damaged bear in a taxi back to their military base.
During a recent court hearing at Reading Magistrates’ Court, Judge Sam Goozee expressed his disappointment at the actions of the men, labelling them the “antithesis” of what Paddington embodies—kindness, tolerance, and acceptance. He highlighted the importance of Paddington Bear as a cultural symbol cherished by both children and adults. “Your actions were the antithesis of everything Paddington stands for,” he stated, drawing attention to the tag on the bear’s coat that reads, “Please look after this bear.”
The statue was part of a wider Paddington-themed project that featured 23 installations across England, designed to celebrate the release of “Paddington in Peru.” The figure of Paddington, clad in his signature blue overcoat and red hat, had been positioned in a contemplative pose while clutching a sandwich, adding to its whimsical charm.
Prosecutor Jamie Renuka explained that the incident occurred around 2 am, following a night of drinking. The two men admitted to the charge of criminal damage, and as a consequence, they were ordered to complete community service and pay £2,725 (approx. AUD $4,320) for the statue’s repair costs.
Judge Goozee condemned their actions as “an act of wanton vandalism,” pointing out that the men had neglected the respect expected of military personnel. The RAF has stated they will review the court’s findings, though any disciplinary measures will remain confidential. Meanwhile, the damaged statue is undergoing repairs and is expected to be reinstated in its original location, much to the relief of the community and Paddington Bear fans alike.