It was a lovely sunny day for the latest group litter pick by the Wombles!

A group event was created which was well attended by twenty members.

It was a thorough sweep of the town, from the Somer Centre through to the Hollies and beyond!

Litter was collected from five car parks, public gardens, streets and pathways.

Over twenty-five sacks were filled by the enthusiastic group! A thoroughly enjoyable afternoon spent with so many like minded folk.

The Womble group was formed a year ago by Laura Jardine with Nicola Smith and Sandra Coles stepping in to become Head Womble. Together, during lockdowns and with more people joining, it became an active group, clearing litter not only from the streets but also schools, where members have worked with pupils.

During the lockdowns, the litter picking proved to be such a positive impact on many of our members. Giving them purpose during very difficult times. Helping to keep well physically and mentally. People have made new friends and met others who have appreciated our efforts as we womble about the community! Members have dived into brambles and hedges and learned that, frustrating as wombling can often be, there are those in our community that really do appreciate our efforts.

The group has been sponsored and supported by local businesses that have supplied much needed equipment. Amongst those are; Integrity printers, Ian Hobbs Technical Services, Signsfx, Ryan Church, Fosseway Tree Services and Sean Fletcher.

Together we have worked wonders! As a team our achievements have been many, from clearing the grounds of Paulton Hospital and the skate park to pressing the council into placing more litter bins where needed. To reporting the huge amounts of fly tipping on the website, Fixmystreet, and encouraging so many of our community to take an active part in our objective, that we now have 371 members!

Anyone can Womble, pickers and bags are available from MSN Town Hall and if you want to join an event (or even create one of your own) or just share your individual triumph/pick then take a look at our Facebook page “Wombles of MSN and surrounding areas” Come join in the fun and feel the benefits of fresh air, good company and good deeds!