LUDLOW based British Hedgehog Preservation Society and its Patron Ben Fogle are concerned that hedgehogs will be injured or killed if the piles of material aren’t carefully checked as Bonfire Night approaches.

The message from Mr Fogle and the group is that if it is necessary to build a bonfire then it should be checked as they make attractive places for hedgehogs to rest up for the winter ahead.

“Hedgehogs are in serious decline and this is one thing you can do to keep them safe,” said Mr Fogle.

“There are other small changes you can make that will help even more, take a look at the BHPS website for ideas.”

Fay Vass, Chief Executive of the Society wants people to understand how attractive but dangerous bonfires are to hedgehogs.

“A bonfire pile looks like a 5* hotel to a hedgehog seeking a safe and cosy winter home to hibernate in,” she said. “They aren’t to know we plan to set light to it!”