Council gives update on Paddington's future in Westport

Westport councillors are seeking assurances that the hugely successful Paddington Bear tourist attraction remains permanently in the town.

Cllr Brendan Mulroy told last week's meeting of Westport-Belmullet Municipal District that Paddington, who has been seated on a bench at the Fairgreen for the past year, is "still a busy, busy bear, bringing people into Westport for a visit". 

"Can we confirm he will become a permanent amenity in the future?” he asked.

Mayo Co Council's Director of Services Joanne Grehan queried whether he was going to be granted the freedom of Westport, to which Cllr Mulroy agreed, saying: “He is associated with Westport now so I put it to the council executive to do whatever needs to be done to ensure he is kept there for the rest of his life. I don’t want to wake up some morning and Paddington to be gone.” 

“I second that,” agreed Cllr John O’Malley.

Administrative Officer Jim Power said: “We are in constant discussion with the company that supplied the statue. As it stands there are no plans regarding Paddington moving.”