Meet the Crosby Wombles – the local heroes helping keep Sefton clean

The Crosby Wombles – a group of community litter pickers in Crosby is showing just what can be done when people take pride in where they live.

The Crosby Wombles might be inspired by the classic 70s kids TV show, but they’re all about inspiring a new generation to look after their local area and come together to make a difference.

Set up in 2022, the Crosby Wombles started with a simple idea – bring people together and take action to tackle litter while building neighbourhood pride. Since then, they’ve grown into a brilliant example of what can happen when a community pulls together, with support from Sefton Council along the way.

Stephen Kershaw and his daughter Maisie, 14, have been part of the Wombles since day one. Maisie says seeing rubbish around does bother her, but knowing they’re making a difference keeps her going. “It gives you a sense of pride and it’s lovely when people beep or say something nice online to show their support,” she says.

The group was founded by Dawn D’Auvin and Jacqui Armistead, who wanted to make litter picking something everyone could get involved with – and enjoy too. Dawn, who’s a primary school teacher, organises family-friendly Wombles events like Paws for Reading and Paws for a Cuppa and Cake, so parents and kids can get stuck in together.

She says the Wombles’ original message about caring for your surroundings is as true today as it ever was. “But the best thing is seeing the friendships that come from it and the confidence people get from being part of something good,” says Dawn. “You see the difference straight away, you’re helping wildlife and stopping rubbish ever getting to our beaches which are so special to Crosby.”

Northern Lights seen at Crosby Beach. Credit: Peter Byrne / PA

Jacqui says it all started with a simple Facebook post to see who’d be up for it. “Most of us didn’t know each other but people came down and it’s grown from there. We’ve got more than 600 members now, regular group picks and family days so even the little ones can join in.

“What we really love is that sense of belonging. Instead of complaining, we just get out and do something about it. It keeps us moving, brings people together and makes Crosby a nicer place for everyone.”

The Wombles are proof that a simple litter pick can do so much more than clean up rubbish. It brings people together, helps tackle isolation and builds friendships – all while keeping Sefton looking its best.

New members of any age or ability are always welcome and their Lend a Paw project means they’re linking up with other groups in Bootle and beyond to help out.

Local businesses have got involved too. Joanne Fairfield from Satterthwaites Bakehouse says her grandson Noah, who’s only three, is already a proud Womble. “He points out litter even when we’re not out wombling,” she says. “It’s lovely to see kids learning good habits so young.”

Sefton Council backs the Crosby Wombles as part of its work to make every neighbourhood greener and cleaner. Cllr Peter Harvey says: “The Wombles are amazing – they’re out and about nearly every day and you can really see the difference they’re making.

“We’re really proud to support them. They’re a fantastic example of local pride in action and show what’s possible when people come together for something positive.”