Remembering the Wombles at AFC Wimbledon

AFC Wimbledon fans have collaborated to ensure a much-loved 1970s TV show lives on.

The Wombles used to grace TV screens decades ago and now they will grace the area once more in the shape of a new bench.

The Dons’ supporters and members of Wimbledon in Sporting Heritage (WiSH) are at the forefront of exciting plans to unveil the Orinoco & Womble Bench on Saturday July 9.

The wood-carved Wombles sculpture will be unveiled outside the Plough Lane stadium, close to the gate three entrance, at 11am, as part of a schedule of activities to commemorate the occasion.

Organisers have also arranged a community litter pick and recycling event.

Volunteers will be recapturing that famous Womble spirit as the lovable creatures apparently spent their days helping the environment by collecting rubbish on Wimbledon Common.

With the help of the Dons Local Action Group, the litter pick will spruce up the area around Plough Lane, including the banks of the River Wandle, and the aim is for it to become a monthly clean-up.

John Lynch, Managing Director at WiSH, said: “This will be a fun event that families can enjoy, but it’s also for a real community cause as we launch a litter-picking activity that we hope will become a regular event.

“We are delighted that members of the Beresford family are coming along to do the grand unveiling and we will be making history as it will be the first Womble installation in the country – and right here at Plough Lane.”

In keeping with the Wombles mantra of re-use and recycle, the bench and statue will be made from fallen and replanted Oak.

Pictured: AFC Wimbledon’s mascot Haydon the Womble (Picture: AFC Wimbledon)