BBC Breakfast viewers were met with a profoundly emotional moment on Monday morning as a guest broke down in tears during the launch of a brand-new weekly feature.
Launch of the 'Rise & Shine' Segment
Presenters Jon Kay and Emma Vardy introduced the new 'Rise & Shine' segment on the 5th of January 2026 episode. This weekly addition to the popular morning show is dedicated to celebrating inspirational individuals and community groups across the UK.
The inaugural feature focused on the Crosby Wombles, a dedicated litter-picking group. Reporter Jayne McCubbin met with the volunteers to highlight their positive impact on the local environment and on each other's lives.
A Heartbreaking Personal Story
After hearing from several members, McCubbin turned the spotlight onto the group's founder, Dawn. She explained that Dawn had set up the community group in 2022 with the support of her husband, Adrian.
The report then delivered devastating news. "Last summer, he unexpectedly died," McCubbin revealed, "and Dawn unexpectedly came to rely on this little litter-picking group in ways she'd never imagined."
Following a photograph of Adrian, an emotional Dawn spoke about the group's support. "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."
An Overwhelming Tribute
Praising Dawn's resilience, Jayne McCubbin told her, "Well done, you. You would have been lost without the work you're doing." Dawn, fighting back tears, agreed completely, adding, "As Jo's just said to me now, Adrian would be so proud, and I really do feel that."
The tribute reached its peak when McCubbin asked the whole group, "Doesn't she do a brilliant job?" This prompted a round of applause that left Dawn visibly overwhelmed and in tears.
Concluding the powerful segment, McCubbin stated, "From litter to love and life-affirming friendships which make a place truly home... Doesn't she make a difference?" She encouraged viewers to share similar stories for the show to champion in 2026.
Back in the studio, presenter Emma Vardy was visibly moved, remarking, "Oh, so nice. We need a bit of this in the middle of our news bulletins, don't we?"
BBC Breakfast airs daily at 6am on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
