Tidy Our Town: Here’s why 2026 is the perfect time for you to join the Northants Litter Wombles

It is nearing two years since the Chronicle & Echo launched Tidy Our Town in collaboration with the Northants Litter Wombles, with the goal of raising awareness of the drastic change needed and celebrating those fighting to make it happen.

The award-nominated campaign remains ongoing due to the importance of keeping this conversation going, and drilling into people that littering and fly tipping is unacceptable.

A new year brings time for reflection, resolutions and goals, so why not take the opportunity to try something new and join the Northants Litter Wombles in their commendable efforts to improve this county?

It starts with joining the Northants Litter Wombles Facebook page, which has all the information you need about the groups in your area and how to get your hands on equipment – including the distinguished purple bags and hi-vis jackets.

The community will welcome you with open arms and if you are unsure of anything, you can publish a message into the Facebook group and a trusty Womble will be sure to reply with exactly what you need.

Not only does joining the Northants Litter Wombles enable you to make a difference and show the pride you feel for where you live with actions rather than words, but it provides a sense of belonging.

Though you could opt to go litter picking on your own if that suits you better, there is an abundance of group picks for you to immerse yourself in this wonderful community of dedicated individuals.

The chances are that you will form meaningful connections in the process, which will see you return to group picks time and time again.

From the countless Wombles I have spoken to in recent years, one of the things they love most about their choice to volunteer is the community they have gained in the process.

Of course it should not fall to the hard work of volunteers to keep Northamptonshire tidy, and make it a place where people want to live, work, visit and invest in, but they do it because they feel passionately and want to make a difference.

If you utilised the time you spent criticising the state of the county and got outside to do your bit, even if that means only clearing your street or immediate area, it will have a positive impact.

So, what are you waiting for? Now is the perfect time to make 2026 the year you regain pride in this area and join together with others to make a remarkable impact.

If you would like to get involved in the Tidy Our Town campaign, established in collaboration with the Northants Litter Wombles, email [email protected].

To get involved and find out more, you can join the Northants Litter Wombles Facebook page here.