Guess Who Packed Up Over 1,000 Teddy Bears?
Imagine walking down Paddington Street and seeing more than a thousand cuddly bears waiting to be traded. That’s exactly what happened in London and around Windsor after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II last month. The royal palace is now handing these fluff‑filled tributes over to Barnardo’s, a children’s charity that the late monarch supported for over three decades.
From Royal Tributes to Toy Shelters
After the Queen’s funeral, people spritzed flowers, left heartfelt notes, and, of course, a whole lot of bears in her honor. Those bears weren’t just left in any old spot; they patiently waited out a large number of bright, floral tributes across the city.
Now it’s time for a professional clean‑up before the bears find new homes with the kids who need a hug.
About Barnardo’s
- The charity has been led by Queen Elizabeth as its patron for over 30 years.
- Chief Executive Lynn Perry said, “We’re delighted to give our furry friends – inspired by the Queen’s love for cuddles – fresh homes.”
- Lynn promises, “These bears will get the love they deserve and spread joy to the children we support.”
Paddington’s Soft Spot in Royal Memories
Remember when the Queen was caught in a video chatting with Paddington? That moment was a highlight of the celebration marking her 70 years on the throne. The queen even joked that she always kept a marmalade sandwich for the little bear in her handbag. Talk about sweet priorities!
During the mourning period, the Royal Parks politely asked people to skip the Paddington bears and the marmalade sandwiches because the local birds had already taken a liking to them. A funny yet charming twist on the memorial tradition.
Prince William’s Caught‑In‑a‑Moment Reaction
Prince William, the heir to the crown, admitted he was choked up after seeing the buzz of bears. Well, who can blame him? A monarch surrounded by tiny, plush friends—how could you stay stoic?
Queen Camilla’s Cheerful Bear Showoff
To celebrate the plan for gifting the bears, Buckingham Palace shared a photo of Queen Camilla with a few of the Paddingtons. A lovely reminder that love and fluff are universal, even beyond the throne.
So, keep those bears in mind next time you’re passing by a park, because they’re not just toys—they’re palaces of compassion set to bring comfort to kids far and wide.
