SIR, — Can my son and I extend our warmest appreciation to all those who responded with such kind concern to our appeal for help in tracking down our misplaced Paddington bear. Not only did the lady who thoughtfully took Paddington into her care contact m

SIR, - Can my son and I extend our warmest appreciation to all those who responded with such kind concern to our appeal for help in tracking down our misplaced Paddington bear. Not only did the lady who thoughtfully took Paddington into her care contact me and arrange for his safe return, but we also received several generous offers of replacement Paddington bears from Herts Advertiser readers should 'Puddington' not prove recoverable.

In the event, the story had a very happy outcome and we have been touched by the assistance we received - including from the Herts Advertiser itself whose super coverage was instrumental in facilitating our bear's return. We take this opportunity to assure all readers that Paddington's wandering days are over and he will be staying safely put at home if and when we venture to any further outposts of the St Albans bus network.

IAN St JOHN,

The Ridgeway, St Albans.