BBC Breakfast viewers were treated to a powerful and emotional start to the week as the programme launched a brand new segment dedicated to community heroes.
A Heartfelt Launch for 'Rise & Shine'
Presenters Jon Kay and Emma Vardy introduced the new weekly feature, titled 'Rise & Shine', on Monday's show. The segment is designed to spotlight the inspiring work of individuals and community groups across the UK. The inaugural edition focused on the Crosby Wombles, a dedicated litter-picking group from Merseyside.
An Emotional Tribute and a Community's Support
BBC reporter Jayne McCubbin met with the volunteers, hearing how the group had positively changed their lives. She highlighted that the force behind the Crosby Wombles was a woman named Dawn, who founded the group in 2022 with her husband, Adrian, by her side. The report then took a poignant turn as McCubbin shared the sad news that Adrian had died unexpectedly in the summer of 2025.
Following a photograph of Adrian, an emotional Dawn explained how the litter-picking community had become her vital support network. "This community has been so supportive, incredibly supportive," she said. "There's many stories shared in a safe environment, and people go away better for sharing."
Overwhelming Praise and a Touching Conclusion
Jayne McCubbin praised Dawn's resilience, stating, "Well done, you. You would have been lost without the work you're doing." Dawn, fighting back tears, agreed completely, adding that her late husband "would be so proud." The segment culminated with McCubbin asking the group, "Doesn't she do a brilliant job?", prompting a round of applause that left Dawn in tears.
McCubbin summarised the story as one moving "from litter to love and life-affirming friendships which make a place truly home." She encouraged viewers to contact the show with similar stories to champion in 2026. Back in the studio, presenter Emma Vardy reflected on the touching report, saying, "Oh, so nice. We need a bit of this in the middle of our news bulletins, don't we?"
BBC Breakfast airs daily from 6am on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
