YOUNGSTERS could bearly believe it when they went not to the woods, but a Reading shopping centre, to find a big surprise.
For Saturday was the day when Paddington brought his marmalade sandwich to Broad St Mall to meet his fans.
The duffel coat wearing star was in town to celebrate World Book Day.
During his visit, he have out hugs and high-fives, posed for photos and read stories to his adoring followers.
And there were also craft workshops for families to enjoy.
Steven Connolly, centre manager, said: “It was great to see so many families come to Broad Street Mall this weekend to see Paddington.
“We hope everyone enjoyed meeting him and getting involved in the free crafts.”
More pictures in Thursday’s print edition of Reading Today