Pride of Guernsey: The Womblers of Guernsey

PICKING up things everyday folk leave behind, the Womblers of Guernsey have been nominated for the Butterfield-sponsored Conservation Hero of the Year Award.

Led by Sam Reoch, a number of dedicated Womblers frequently give up their time to keep Guernsey beaches tidy.

Their hard work has not gone unnoticed, with three nominations for this year’s conservation award.

‘Sam founded the Found on the Beach Facebook page and has, through this, heightened awareness of the devastating effect on wildlife the problem of litter on our beaches and in our oceans is having,’ said Sandra Martel-Dunn, who nominated the group.

‘It is to their total credit that they will womble in all weathers to clear the detritus unthinkingly dropped or disposed of by humans – often coping with dangerous and unsanitary items.

‘Sam has brought together a unique band of socially and environmentally minded locals making our beaches cleaner, safer and even more beautiful by their selfless endeavours.’

Ms Martel-Dunn said although sad that the group was necessary, it was something everyone should strive to be part of for the greater good of Guernsey, its wildlife and the sea.

Emma Shearer also recognised the important work of the Womblers.

‘Sam and her band of Wombles use their own free time to pick up rubbish from our coastline, helping the environment and also helping to keep our island beautiful.

‘Sam, in particular, also uses her own time to administer specific Facebook groups where people can share information on what they have picked up. Without Sam, her Wombles and their influence on others, our coastline would probably look very different.’

Sarah Garrard said the group posts regular updates on its beachcombing antics, which helped raise awareness of rubbish pollution on Guernsey shores.

‘I think as a collective they do an amazing job and should receive this between them,’ she said.