Ross has had an association with hedgehogs going back some 1500 years when the Celts invaded the area and called it Ergyng which translated as Land of the Hedgehogs.

This week the Hedgehog Festival group, which celebrates all things hedgehog, and also aims to educate children and their families about these creatures, is organising a special day.

The Hedgehog Day will take place on Sunday, September 17th, near to the Hope and Anchor public house.

There will be a bird of prey in attendance, the Herefordshire Mammal (and Bat) Group will have a display, Made in Ross will have hedgehog- themed arts and crafts and Ross Scouts will be selling handmade hedgehog houses.

Author, Robert A Brown, pictured right, will give readings from his book The Hedgehog Boy, and there will be a range of stalls.