Paddington Bear or Primark? Which was the happiest news story for Bury St Edmunds in 2024?

Here at SuffolkNews, we have been looking back at the stories that caused a stir in the county over the last 12 months.

Handily for our reporters, two of the biggest have unfolded at the arc Shopping Centre, just a stone's throw from our office in Bury St Edmunds.

In March, more than 5,500 shoppers descended on the town’s new Primark, which, according to the fashion chain, is almost 13 per cent of the town’s population.

The arrival of a Paddington Bear statue in October, complete with a marmalade sandwich, had families flocking to a bench outside the Apex, now a key spot for selfies.

For some Betwixtmas fun, we decided to find out what key figures in Bury thought about the new additions.

But first, some of our readers have been sharing their opinions on social media.

On the Bury Free Press Facebook page, Jenifer Keating said she was in Bury to see Paddington unveiled by 'pure chance'.

Jenifer said: “Since then I’ve seen so many children and adults sit beside him to have their photos taken.

“He’s certainly brought some cheer with him. So it’s Paddington for me.”

Katie Monaghan said she couldn’t decide between the two options.

She posted: “Both are great for Bury and both have given me a reason to come into town after not having one for a long time.”

Most readers’ votes went to Paddington, though some were keen that the town’s small businesses received some recognition.

Diane Hind, Mayor of Bury St Edmunds, was a special guest when Primark opened and was given the honour of unveiling Paddington.

On the Primark versus Paddington debate, the mayor said: "I think both have been excellent in different ways. Primark offers value for money and brings in shoppers who then visit other shops and restaurants.

"Paddington is such a great character loved by the whole family, and as a literary character, he brings fun, but also stimulates an interest in reading.

"I loved seeing a school class sitting around him listening to a story."

Allan Hassell, centre manager at the arc, said: "We've been delighted to welcome both Primark and Paddington to arc Shopping Centre in 2024.

"Each new addition has made its own stamp not only on the shopping centre, but Bury St Edmunds as a whole.

"Primark has allowed us to diversify our offering and provide shoppers with more choice than before, and seeing the smiles Paddington leaves on shoppers faces is priceless."

Mark Cordell, CEO of Our Bury St Edmunds, said unsurprisingly he would be sitting on the fence.

"Primark has undoubtedly attracted increased footfall to the town, which has been a huge benefit to our businesses but Paddington provides joy and selfie opportunities to those who are visiting the town," said Mr Cordell.

On Paddington, he added: "It is seldom that I walk across the arc and don't see someone sitting next to him."

And my opinion?

In a year when news has often seemed incredibly dark, sometimes you have to write a quirky story, buy a pair of bargain socks and take a selfie with a bear.

Essentially finding little moments of joy when and where you can.