He’s almost part of the family, now. Paddington Bear, who so famously starred in a sketch with Queen Elizabeth II to mark her Platinum Jubilee and became a poignant symbol of remembrance following Her Late Majesty’s death, took a starring role in a new royal tradition.
As the Princess of Wales welcomed hundreds to Westminster Abbey for her second Christmas carol service, Paddington was ready and waiting for the guests.
The little bear was found decorating one of the spectacular Christmas trees in the Abbey that had been decked to bring the festive spirit to the Abbey. Baubles with images of Paddington on them were also on the trees.
It was a special nod to one of the most enduring moments of Queen Elizabeth II’s later reign – the sketch she starred in with Paddington was one of the most celebrated parts of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations. During their chat, Her Late Majesty finally revealed what she kept in her famous handbag – marmalade sandwiches which, she said, were ”for later.”
Just months afterwards, as thousands came to London to mourn Her Late Majesty, many left Paddingtons in the piles of flowers placed as tributes along with marmalade sandwiches and notes reading ”for later”. The Paddingtons were later gathered up and cleaned. Queen Camilla then took them to Barnados to be given to the children being looked after by the charity.
The Royal Family found themselves rubbing shoulders with the bear again at the carol service. It’s the second year in a row that the Princess of Wales has organised the service which celebrates the contribution of local communities in caring for one another. This year’s service also paid special tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and her life of service and duty. The Prince of Wales read from one of his grandmother’s festive speeches during the event.
The Christmas carol service is fast becoming a new royal tradition. It will be shown on ITV1 on Christmas Eve.
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