ANOTHER soggy winter, and hedgehogs seem as sick of it as the rest of us because they're already out and about. Already we're seeing small bodies on the road.

Hedgehogs don't see too well at the best of times, and with the rain pouring down they stomp along the road grumbling to themselves, unaware that at any moment they could be run over. Please keep your speed down and save a few small lives. Humans will benefit as well as hedgehogs.

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

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 .