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The Wombles Collectables – Collecting The Wombles

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The Wombles, created by Elisabeth Beresford in 1968, are an enduring part of British culture. With their eco-conscious message and whimsical charm, they have inspired books, television shows, music, and a wide range of collectables. For fans and collectors alike, The Wombles’ memorabilia represents more than nostalgia—it embodies creativity, environmental awareness, and timeless storytelling. We take a look at The Wombles origins & development, and some of The Wombles Collectables and merchandise that have been created over the years.

The Wombles Ten original illustrations for The Wombles 1977-1978 for Jack and Jill
The Wombles Ten original illustrations for The Wombles 1977-1978 for Jack and Jill. Sold for £580 at Dominic Winter Auctions, December 2021.

The Origins of The Wombles

The Wombles first appeared in Beresford’s book The Wombles, which introduced the furry, underground creatures of Wimbledon Common. Led by the wise Great Uncle Bulgaria, the group includes inventive Tobermory, laid-back Orinoco, practical Madame Cholet, shy Wellington, energetic Bungo, sporty Tomsk, and artistic Alderney. Each character’s distinct traits not only added humour and heart to the stories but also inspired unique collectables over the decades.

The Wombles by Elizabeth Beresford 1st Edition
The Wombles by Elizabeth Beresford 1st Edition. As with nearly all books, condition of the book and especially the dustjacket is very important. This edition Beresford, Elisabeth  “The Wombles”, illustrated by Margaret Gordon, Ernest Benn Limited 1968, signed by the author on tp and also on ffep, Ravensbank First School stamp on ffep and some signs of label being removed on inside front board, green/yellow mottled cloth, dust wrapper not price clipped, slight chips to the dust wrapper, binding tight, overall good. Sold for £130 at Cotswold Auction Company, February 2024.

Wombles on Television and the Boom of Merchandising

The success of The Wombles books expanded exponentially when the BBC aired a stop-motion animated series in 1973, narrated by Bernard Cribbins. The show’s popularity spurred a wave of merchandise, including toys, games, books, and more. Pelham Puppets, a beloved British brand, created a range of Wombles marionettes, bringing characters like Great Uncle Bulgaria, Tobermory, Orinoco, Bungo, and Madame Cholet to life. These puppets became highly sought after and remain prized by collectors today.

Five Boxed Pelham Wombles Puppets Great Uncle Bulgaria Madame Cholet Orinoco Tomsk And Bungo
Five Boxed Pelham Wombles Puppets Great Uncle Bulgaria Madame Cholet Orinoco Tomsk And Bungo. This lovely collection sold for £130 at Richard Winterton Auctioneers, May 2023.

The 1970s also saw The Wombles’ rise in the music charts, thanks to composer Mike Batt. The Wombles’ albums, featuring hits like “The Wombling Song,” brought additional opportunities for themed collectables, such as vinyl records, posters, and band memorabilia.

The Range of Wombles Collectables

The breadth of Wombles collectables is staggering, spanning decades and generations. Including:

  • Books & Annuals: The original stories by Elisabeth Beresford remain foundational to any collection. First editions of The Wombles (1968) and later sequels like The Wandering Wombles (1970) and The Wombles Go Round the World (1976) are highly collectible. As well as the annuals that were published in the mid 1970s, and later examples.
  • Figurines: Including original plastic figures and the excellent Robert Harrop Collection.
  • Toys and Puppets: Pelham Puppets’ marionettes, plush toys, and figurines of the characters are some of the most iconic Wombles items. These detailed representations captured the essence of each Womble, from Great Uncle Bulgaria’s spectacles and shawl to Orinoco’s scarf and relaxed posture.
  • Plush Toys and Bears: Steiff have created bears of some of The Wombles which are very collectable, as well as period bears and later collections such as First Love.

    First Love Wombles Plush Toys Collection
    First Love Wombles Plush Toys Collection. This selection sold for £60 on ebay, November 2024.
  • Music Memorabilia: Mike Batt’s Wombles band created a surge in Wombles-related music items, including vinyl albums, sheet music, and promotional materials from concerts.
  • Household Items and Games: The 1970s and 1980s saw a flood of Wombles-themed merchandise, including mugs, lunchboxes, board games, and stationery. These items brought The Wombles into homes and schools, making them a part of everyday life.
  • Original Artworks and Props: Original artwork from the Elisabeth Beresford is most sought after, as well artwork from the annuals that the characters appeared in such as Pippin and Jack & Jill. Not many original props or the original puppets from the series have ever made their way into auction, and it is reported that there whereabouts is unknown?

Make Good Use of Bad Rubbish

Part of The Wombles’ enduring appeal is their environmental message. Their mantra, “Make Good Use of Bad Rubbish,” resonates with collectors who appreciate repurposing and sustainability. In many ways, collecting Wombles memorabilia reflects their ethos: preserving and cherishing items that might otherwise be forgotten. Collectors often take pride in restoring vintage items, such as repairing damaged Pelham Puppets or finding creative ways to display older toys and memorabilia. This approach not only honours The Wombles’ message but also highlights the joy of giving new life to cherished objects.

The Legacy of Wombles Collectables

The collectables tied to The Wombles are not merely tokens of nostalgia—they are a testament to the creativity and imagination that Elisabeth Beresford brought to her stories. Each item, whether a first-edition book, a vinyl record, or a vintage toy, carries a piece of The Wombles’ history and their message of environmental stewardship. For fans, collectors, and newcomers alike, The Wombles’ memorabilia serves as a reminder of the joy and wisdom these beloved characters continue to bring. Collecting The Wombles is more than a hobby; it’s a way to celebrate storytelling, sustainability, and a timeless commitment to making the world a better place.

We will be adding further features on The Wombles so please do Search the web site.

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