For generations, Oor Wullie has captured the hearts of Scots and comic fans alike. The comic strip character, known for his cheeky grin, spiky hair, and ever-present bucket, Oor Wullie first appeared in 1936 in the Sunday Post and has been a beloved part of Scottish culture ever since.

Created by writer R.D. Low and artist Dudley D. Watkins, Oor Wullie (which means “Our Willie” in Scots) is a young lad from a fictional Scottish town. His adventures, often humorous and heartwarming, revolve around his mischievous antics, close-knit group of pals, and interactions with quirky townsfolk.

R.D. Low was a Scottish journalist and editor, born in Dundee, Scotland. He worked for D.C. Thomson & Co., the Dundee-based publishing house responsible for the Sunday Post. His role in shaping Oor Wullie and its sister strip The Broons cemented his place in Scottish literary history.

Dudley D. Watkins, on the other hand, was born in Manchester, England, in 1907. He moved to Scotland after being recruited by D.C. Thomson, where he became one of their most celebrated artists. Watkins’ talent for expressive and detailed illustration helped make Oor Wullie and The Broons iconic. Though born in England, his work is deeply intertwined with Scottish culture.

Central to Oor Wullie’s charm is his relatable personality. Whether he’s dreaming up schemes to make pocket money, dodging trouble with local authority figures like the policeman P.C. Murdoch, or simply sitting atop his iconic upturned bucket reflecting on life, he embodies the essence of childhood innocence and curiosity.

The comic strip has become a cultural institution in Scotland, with annual publications that are cherished collectors’ items. It has also inspired statues, street art, and charitable initiatives, including the “Oor Wullie’s Big Bucket Trail,” which saw decorated sculptures placed across Scotland to raise money for children’s hospitals.

For visitors to Scotland, Oor Wullie offers a delightful glimpse into Scottish humour and dialect. Whether you pick up an annual, visit a statue, or just hear a Scot reminiscing about him, Oor Wullie is sure to bring a smile to your face. As the boy himself might say: “Jings, crivvens, help ma boab!”