The Lady Magazine

28 November 2014

My first teddy – or at least the first teddy I remember – was a Paddington. I remember particularly his red rubber wellie boots and how they really didn’t make him the softest of soft toys. Well Peru’s most famous export has now, finally, made it on to the big screen. And voiced by Ben Whishaw – Colin Firth backed out of the role earlier in the year – he is picking up some rather fine reviews. He has also attracted a little controversy, with the British Board of Film Classification awarding the film a PG certificate – owing to some ‘mild sex references’. Golly. Well, we won’t get into that, but on page 20, we do have Paddington creator Michael Bond’s daughter on how her father dreamt up Britain’s best-loved bear. As series six is announced, we also have a rare backstage glimpse of Downton Abbey and the colourful characters who keep things running smoothly behind the scenes, and a fascinating audience with the daring debutante who built an aerodrome and became known as the Flying Housewife. We also teach you how to make your own Christmas wreath; reveal how to deal with that tyrannical boss, and hear why actor Timothy West has the right to herd sheep over London Bridge. I’m only hoping that next time he does, he remembers to ask me along. Very best wishes, Matt Warren, Editor