Little legs take big steps for nature with hedgehog walk

Beloved Timmy Time characters are joining forces with hundreds of little legs across Hertfordshire and Middlesex this spring to help nature recover, as The Wildlife Trust’s popular Hedgehog Walk returns.

The family-friendly event, which takes place from 30 March to 30 April, encourages nurseries, schools and families to get outdoors, get active and raise vital funds for local wildlife. The challenge is to walk or wheel three kilometres – the same distance a hedgehog roams in a night.

Hedgehog numbers having fallen by 30% in just over 10 years, and there are now thought to be fewer than one million left in the UK. As the challenge takes place during the same time hedgehogs start to come out of hibernation, those taking part can really help to make a difference and raise awareness of hedgehogs’ plight.

Lea Ellis, Engagement Manager at Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust says, ‘Whether you’re toddling through the park with Timmy, ambling through the woods with Apricot, or counting laps in the playground with Bumpy, every step with Timmy and friends helps build a better future for wildlife. I hope the Hedgehog Walk will spark curiosity and help young wildlife enthusiasts learn how to care for the natural world around them.

‘We can help Hedgehogs to roam by leaving a small gap under our gates, or a hole in a fence or hedge. This enables them to move more freely between our gardens and green spaces, supports their populations and cuts down the risk of road incidents.’

Rachael Peacock, head of brand marketing at Aardman, the creators of Timmy Time, says: ‘We’re delighted to return with The Wildlife Trusts for another Hedgehog Walk, with Timmy and Apricot leading the way once more. It’s a brilliant opportunity for families to enjoy the outdoors together, learn about the wildlife around them, and take part in something that makes a real difference.’

Those who sign up for the Hedgehog Walk will receive a downloadable Timmy Time-themed activity pack with engaging resources, including posters, activity sheets, fact sheets and tracking timelines to help mark the 3km milestone.

To find out more visit wildlifetrusts.org/hedgehog-walk.