The Wombles

The Wombles

The Wombles are a British group based on the fictional characters created by Elisabeth Beresford, who first appear in children’s novels from 1968. The characters live in burrows and are known for collecting and reusing rubbish, with stories centred on Wimbledon Common in London. Although the original book characters resemble teddy bears, they are usually described as pointy-nosed furry creatures.

Musical version

The Wombles’ recording career is the band version of the television show. The songs are written and performed by Mike Batt, and the group is active from 1973 to the present. The line-up includes Mike Batt, Les Hurdle, Eddie Mordue, Rex Morris and Chris Spedding.

Context and themes

The Wombles’ environmental message is associated with recycling and reuse, and it appears ahead of wider mainstream concern in the 1970s. The name is also used as a nickname for AFC Wimbledon, whose fans sing terrace songs referring to the Wombles.