A request for the public to stop leaving Paddington Bear toys as tributes to the Queen has been dubbed the most British response ever. In the days since Her Majesty's passing, thousands of tributes have been laid to Queen Elizabeth II.
Across the country, tributes have been placed everywhere from schools to Buckingham Palace. But now mourners have been asked to stop leaving Paddington Bears and wrapped marmalade sandwiches in certain locations. The sweet gifts, inspired by the Queen's friendship with Paddington, warmed the hearts of many fans. However, they can pose a danger to wildlife, as highlighted by the Royal Parks.
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Writing on the charity's website, a spokesperson said: "In the interests of sustainability, we ask visitors to only lay organic or compostable material."
While people were quick to acknowledge the importance of the message, many also appeared to be amused by the need for such announcements. And reports sharing similar advice proved popular in turn.
One report in particular that gathered a lot of attention was that of Sally Nugent's for BBC News.
In a clip shared across social media platforms, the presenter can be seen trying to gently relay the news to mourners.
She says: "I just want to bring you a little bit of advice that has come from the Royal Parks this morning. They are suggesting that there are enough Paddington's and marmalade sandwiches at the moment, so please feel free to bring flowers, but maybe don't bring any more Paddington's or marmalade sandwiches."
On the one hand, people enjoyed the choice of wording. One person wrote: "'Don't bring any more... for now.' So more may be needed later?"
Someone replied: "Stand ready with your Paddington's for the next wave."
And others were keen to point out the Britishness of the entire situation.
"This is so exceptionally British," said one social media user.
Meanwhile, @thearchbishopofbanterbury commented: "Just another day on a totally normal island," after sharing a clip of the report to its Instagram page.
But many were also quick to point out mourners can still pay tribute to the Queen, and help others in the process, by donating teddy bears to hospitals or charities in her honour. Commenters also advised people to direct any fresh sandwiches to food banks.
