MORE TEA, PADDINGTON BEAR?

In the outpouring of memories following her death, Her Majesty has been remembered by many for her warmth and humour. These traits were very much on show when she met for afternoon tea with another much-loved British icon, Paddington Bear.

Created by British children’s book author Michael Bond, the marmalade sandwich-loving Paddington first appeared in Bond’s 1958 book, A Bear Called Paddington. Bond later released Paddington at the Palace in which Paddington Bear visits Buckingham Palace. In the story Paddington doesn’t meet Queen Elizabeth II, but spots a glimpse of her through a window. The remarkable pair were finally able to meet in a heartfelt sketch as part of this year’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations. After making a mess of the royal spread, Paddington offers the Queen a marmalade sandwich from his hat, saying, “I always keep one for emergencies.” The Queen replies, gesturing to her handbag: “So do I ... I keep mine in here.”

On the news of her death, Paddington posted a sweet and simple tribute to Twitter, summing up the feelings of many: “Thank you Ma’am, for everything.”