Underground, overground, Wombling free again? 

Deadline have broken the news that a new television series starring The Wombles is in the works.

The television division of Altitude Media Group (The Ipcress File) is behind the project, with writer Will Davies (How To Train Your Dragon).

The message of the environmentally conscious creatures is as relevant today as it was when they first emerged on television 50 years ago; residing underneath Wimbledon Common, they were ahead of the curve on recycling as they cleaned up after messy humans.

Based on Elizabeth Beresford’s stories, the furry creatures’ first foray on the small screen ran for two series. Repeated endlessly, those 60 five-minute stop motion shorts, voiced by the late Bernard Cribbins, delighted generations of children. They furry creatures also became a pop music phenomenon too!

Further episodes were added in the 1990s, with Canadian actors providing the voices.

The Wombles had an abortive CGI return in the 2010s, designed to become part of the Channel 5 Milkshake children’s strand. Despite the star power of Ray Winstone, plus a returning Bernard Cribbins, it seems that only two episodes were produced.

Fingers crossed that this latest version enjoys better luck! We’ll keep you posted.