In 1958 Paddington made his first appearance in print, yet it was not until thirteen years after Michael Bond’s book hit the bookstores that the first stuffed toy version of the bear was created. The bear was made by toymaker Shirley Clarkson (mother of TV personality Jeremy) as a Christmas gift for her two children, becoming a prototype for the subsequent mass-produced bear and forming quite a story in itself. This bear was to have such an impact that the stuffed toy version became as well-known as the stories themselves. Debbie Jewson explores the history of Paddington stuffed bears and reveals some lesser-known fascinating Paddington facts. The book features stunning photographs of many bears by Gabrielle Designs, Eden Toys, R. John Wright, Steiff, Rainbow Designs and other companies licensed from the late 1990s onwards, as well as early rare bears and exquisitely made modern collector’s bears and soft cuddly toys. A guide for collectors, tips on dating and identifying early bears provide a useful and insightful resource.

Paddington’s ability to enchant generation after generation firmly places him in the ‘Bear Hall of Fame’ and this marmalade-loving bear’s popularity looks set to continue for many years to come.