How Paddington Bear ended up in the back of a police van

Funny pictures show Paddington Bear being held in the back of a police van.

Officers had to give the statue of the famous marmalade-loving bear an escort after it went missing.

Cops took it in after it was targeted by vandals and removed from a bench days after being reinstalled.

Paddington had been temporarily removed from Southampton's Guildhall Square in April after its bench was destroyed.

It was put back in place last week but in the early hours of Sunday Paddington was reported missing.

Hampshire Constabulary said officers found Paddington abandoned but undamaged in a park.

Southampton Police said: "He was recovered safely and, as you can see, was given a police escort while arrangements were made for his return.

"Thankfully, he was found in one piece - and he certainly needed a marmalade sandwich after his ordeal.

"While we know Paddington is a much-loved character and this may raise a smile, damage to public property is a serious offence.

"The statue brings joy to residents, visitors, families and businesses in the city centre, and it is disappointing to see him targeted again so soon after recent repairs.

"Please look after Paddington. He is a bear of very good standing in our city."