SUNDERLAND’s the Bridges will be making its most famous resident the centre of its Easter activities – ensuring it’s a “beary” special experience for shoppers.
Last year the centre was one of a number chosen across the UK to have a statue of Paddington™ Bear sitting on a bench – complete with marmalade sandwich – become a permanent fixture.
And to continue the excitement, the Bridges has unveiled a full programme of bear-y fun Easter activities.
From 14- 25 April, the centre will be running a Marmalade Trail, where youngsters can pick up a map from the Customer Service Desk and follow it around the centre and find letters in various stores – with prizes up for grabs.
On 15,17,22 and 24 April the Bridges will play host to Teddy Storytime and Easter Crafts between 10am and 3pm.
Each storytime session will run at 11am and 2pm featuring costumed characters on a springtime theme and young visitors are being encouraged to take their favourite teddy to cuddle while they’re listening to the stories.
The craft sessions include teddy bear Easter card making and bunny baskets on 15 April, followed by Easter springtime bonnets and hat decorating on 17 April.
To coincide with Earth Day, the activities on 22 April will focus on springtime planting, where youngsters can plant seeds to take home. Children will also be able to decorate a marmalade jar and plant marigolds and sunflowers.
On April 24 young people can enjoy teddy bear sand art, keeping them entertained throughout the session.
On Saturday 19 April, Paddington himself will be making an appearance at intervals from 10am until 3pm – the perfect opportunity for fans to capture photos.
Karen Eve, Centre Director at the Bridges, believes the programme of events will be incredibly popular.
“We know how challenging it can be for parents to keep youngsters entertained over the Easter holidays,” she said.
“So we hope our programme of activities will provide them with some fantastic opportunities to let their children have a really memorable experience. Since the Bridges first welcomed Paddington back in October he’s been a really popular addition to the centre, with people of all ages wanting to sit on the bench beside him and get their photograph taken.”