RAF engineers vandalize Paddington Bear statue in Newbury

In early March 2025, a Paddington Bear statue in Newbury, Berkshire, was vandalized by two Royal Air Force engineers, Daniel Heath and William Lawrence. The incident involved the engineers attempting to rip the statue from its bench during the early hours of March 2. The act of vandalism shocked the quiet town of Newbury, where the statue had been a beloved fixture since its original installation in October 2024. Following the event, the local community expressed their grief and surprise at the incident, as crime in the area had not been particularly severe. The engineers were charged and appeared at Reading Magistrates' Court later in March, where both admitted to criminal damage. They were sentenced to 12-month community orders and ordered to pay £2,725 each to cover repair costs. After nearly five weeks of repairs, the statue was restored and unveiled in a ceremony on April 9, 2025, with a local business group involved in the event. The unveiling was met with enthusiasm from the community, emphasizing how much the statue had come to symbolize local pride. The CEO of Newbury Business Improvement District expressed excitement at Paddington's return and shared that children were encouraged to welcome Paddington back by writing letters, which would be collected until later that day. The event not only marked the return of the statue but also showcased the community's response to vandalism, demonstrating resilience and unity in the face of adversity.