A New Set of Stamps Celebrates the Wombles
A new collection of stamps has been released, highlighting the beloved characters from children’s literature, The Wombles. These stamps are a tribute to the whimsical and endearing creatures created by Elisabeth Beresford, who spent over three decades living on the island of Alderney. The designs feature six wooden sculptures that bring the fictional characters to life, capturing their charm and unique personalities.
Bridget Yabsley, the head of philatelic at Guernsey Post, described the stamps as “delightful” and noted that they evoke a sense of nostalgia for The Wombles, which have been cherished by generations of fans. While the stamps are available for pre-order, the final designs are currently being reviewed at Buckingham Palace for royal approval.
The sculptures featured on the stamps were crafted by artist Mike Burgess and stand at 4 feet (1.2 meters) tall, made from English oak. These statues are part of The Wombles Trail, which is spread across the island of Alderney. Each stamp showcases a different Womble character in its natural setting, giving collectors a glimpse into the world of these charming creatures.
Here are some of the locations where the statues can be found:
- Madame Cholet is located at Alderney Harbour.
- Great Uncle Bulgaria can be seen at the airport.
- Tobermory is positioned at Mannez Train Station.
- Orinoco sits on a children’s ‘whisper seat’ at the Butes Playground.
- Wellington stands on the hospital roundabout.
- Alderney is placed in the Le Clonque Car Park.
Elisabeth Beresford, the creator of The Wombles, had many of her books set on Alderney, and she was honored with an MBE in 1998 for her contributions to children’s literature. Her work continues to inspire readers and artists alike, and the new stamps serve as a fitting tribute to her legacy.
The release of these stamps has generated excitement among both stamp collectors and fans of The Wombles. The combination of art, literature, and local culture makes this collection a unique and valuable addition to any collection.
For those interested in staying updated on news and events related to Guernsey, there are several platforms to follow, including social media accounts on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Readers can also submit story ideas to [email protected].
More news stories about Guernsey are available, along with the latest updates and information. For those looking to learn more about the Wombles and their connection to Alderney, additional resources can be found through various online links and local publications.
