The hedgehog is the ancient emblem of Ross-on-Wye and this week, May 6th - 12th, it is Hedgehog Awareness Week. Here are five simple actions to help hedgehogs:

1. Hedgehogs get very thirsty at this time of year - please leave a shallow bowl of fresh water each night for them to drink from.

2. Invite hedgehogs into your garden by checking your fence line. An adult hedgehog can squeeze through a gap that is 3" wide and 4" high.

3. Hedgehogs enjoy eating insects found in log piles, leaf litter and long grass so leave an untidy patch in your garden for hedgehogs to forage.

4. Litter can strangle and suffocate hedgehogs - pick up elastic bands, polystyrene cups and other litter that may cause them harm and dispose of appropriately.

5. Hedgehogs swim but drown in ponds with steep sides. Check your pond has a ramp to help hedgehogs get in and out of your pond.