ISN'T it great how the sight of a few daffodils can kid us into thinking that spring is on the way?

Off we toddle to the garden centre. Out come the gloves, forks, spades and newly polished good intentions, and we're outside digging in compost.

The trouble is, hedgehogs nest in compost heaps and every spring many unfortunate creatures are speared by gardening forks and rushed to the vet. Save yourself and the hedgehog some anguish and check the compost before you pitch in.

If you want a special hedgehog nesting box for your garden they are available through our Hogalogue. For a free copy of the Hogalogue send an A5 stamped, self addressed envelope to the address below.

Many of your readers will know of the existence of the British Hedgehog Preservation Society. Others may be interested in its aims:

1. To encourage and give advice to the public about the care of Hedgehogs, particularly when injured, sick, orphaned, treated cruelly or in any danger.

2. To encourage the younger generation to value and respect our natural wildlife and, by supplying information and giving lectures, to foster their interest in Hedgehogs.

3. To fund serious research into the behavioural habits of Hedgehogs and to ascertain the best methods of assisting their survival.

Anyone who wishes to learn more about the Society, its activities and the wide range of Hedgehog goods which are sold should send a stamped addressed envelope to the address below.

A H Coles

British Hedgehog

Preservation Society

Knowbury House

Shropshire, SY8 3LQ.