Paddington Bear

The BBC's David Sillito was lost for words.

The new West End production shares a first look at its star, whose design was a closely guarded secret.

It follows Spitting Image creating a parody version of the children's character for its YouTube series.

Paddington is credited with boosting visitor numbers and marmalade sales in the Cumbrian town.

Filmgoers picnicked under the stars in front of the castle site, maintained by the National Trust.

The McFly star says he is "so lucky and honoured" to have written the music and lyrics for the new show.

Lord of the Rings and 007 – but not Harry Potter – are expected at the Bedfordshire theme park.

The statue was unveiled in front of applauding town residents and pupils from John Rankin School.