Environmentally-minded trailblazers, The Wombles have teamed up with Bootle’s new outdoor venue, Salt and Tar for a brand-new partnership.

They’ve made their way underground and overground from their home in Wimbledon Common to the venue Bootle Strand where they are joining up with Sefton Council to promote the importance of caring for the environment, education and recycling.

The Wombles are already a familiar sight at Salt and Tar, having previously supported the Climate Change event in 2023. Their appearance at this event (pictured) was thanks to the Crosby Wombles. Currently, the Crosby Wombles are the only official Womble group within Sefton.

Small changes, big difference

Together, the two groups will work together to hold community events, linking closely with local environmental and youth groups. The focus will be on the environment and how people can make small changes that will have a big impact on the world around them.

The Wombles will also make their mark on events held at Salt and Tar, with an emphasis on vendors and organisers being mindful of reducing the use of single use plastic and non-recyclable materials.

There will also be increased focus on recycling and reducing the amount of littering among visitors.

Cllr Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council said: “As well as being tidy and clean, Wombles are organised and work as a team, which makes them ideal partners for Sefton Council.

“Their dedication to looking after the environment and taking care of the world around us reflects the values we hold dearly in Sefton.

“Our regeneration of Bootle town centre is not only focused on retail and business, but on creating greener, community-based spaces where we can come together and support one another to make an impact on the local area. And Uncle Bulgaria and co can help us achieve that.”

New ventures

Nestled between the Liverpool-Leeds canal and Bootle Strand, Salt and Tar is the Borough’s newest hub for large-scale and community events, as well as for food and drink. Last year Salt and Tar hosted a Comedy and Music weekenders, and this year will see Sir Tom Jones play two dates in August.

Cllr Atkinson added: “Even though people don't notice them and never see, even though under their noses a womble may be, The Wombles are a huge and happy part of many people’s childhood.

“Being able to work closely with such influential figures at Salt and Tar is a fantastic opportunity.

“The Wombles are the perfect role models for this, and I am looking forward to seeing the projects that we are able to work on together.”

Great Uncle Bulgaria from The Wombles said: ‘We are delighted to be working with the Sefton Council to promote the positive environmental story behind the Salt and Tar project. We also want to encourage everyone in the area to take a more active role in the conservation, protection and improvement of their local environment.

“Together we can create a wonderful place for humans and Wombles.”

Role models

The Wombles are the original environmental champions. Last year marked the 50th anniversary of their first television appearance and their show went on to become one of the most popular children’s programmes of all time. Right from the beginning their adventures involved recycling and reusing the discarded things left behind by humans, so they were undoubtedly ahead of their time.

Since being brought out of hibernation in 2020 The Wombles have inspired a new generation with their positive environmental message. They believe that no action is too small to make the world a better place. They have featured in campaigns for the Great British Spring Clean, recycling, tree planting, beach cleaning, plastic waste reduction and upcycling, and were the UK government’s mascots at COP26.

Today's announcement has been made as part of Independent Venue Week, an annual celebration on independently-owned venues such as Salt and Tar. The week focuses on the important work that takes place behind the scenes at these venues and the huge impact they have on the local community.

To find out more about Salt and Tar, and any future events in collaboration with the Wombles, visit www.saltandtarbootle.com