THE bear in Westbrook Walk, Alton, could be removed from the spot where he has stood for 25 years.

Soult Holdings have put in an application to East Hampshire District Council to have the statue removed to make way for "alterations to shop fronts and elevations into Westbrook Walk and Market Square".

Their agency said that Soult Holdings wants to refurbish Westbrook Walk precinct to make it "a place to be" by creating a friendlier feeling that will encourage people to come and shop.

At present it was felt many of its shop fronts were looking tired.

The application comes when many of the leases are coming up for renewal. If approved, the shops in Westbrook Walk, built in 1988, will be given a new look to make the area more friendly and to attract more businesses to take up premises, and to encourage trade into the town. As to the fate of the bear the spokesman said: "I know children love to climb on the bear, although last year a notice was put on his stand saying don't climb him."

He continued: "The statue is in the way of the plans for Westbrook Walk as it is in quite a tight corner. However, my clients are well aware of the feelings people have for the bear, and it might be possible to relocate him to a better spot."