AN annual appeal is being made to bonfire organisers to check for sleeping hedgehogs.

The British Hedgehog Preservation Society says the British mammal is in decline and each one is precious. It is asking those who will be lighting their fires soon to check there isn't a hibernating hedgehog in their midst as they are the sort of place they would choose for their winter-long nap.

The society says the best possible way to ensure the pile is hog free is not to build it until the day it is to be lit. Or, if it has been up for a while to completely dismantle and re-site it. However, if this is not feasible, then another way to check is to use broom handles or poles to lift the bonfire from the base and shine torches in to see if you can hear or see anything.“

If a hedgehogs is found, take as much of the nest as you can and place it in a high-sided cardboard box with plenty of newspaper/old towelling. Ensure there are air holes in the lid and that the lid is secured firmly to the box, as hedgehogs are great climbers. Wear garden gloves to protect both yourself and the hedgehog. Put the box in a safe place such as a shed or garage well away from the festivities and offer the hedgehog meaty cat or dog food and fresh water to drink. Once the bonfire is totally dampened down, release the hedgehog under a hedge, bush or behind a stack of logs with more food and water.