When I launched this competition a month ago I had no idea what was going to turn up on the Hedgehog Highways Facebook group ... especially when the devil in me suggested using the #pimpyourhole! 

The results have been wonderful - nearly 50 new holes out there, overcoming obstacles - and helping create a conversation that will ensure the network of highways continues to grow.

The highways that this petition is trying to get instilled into planning law (currently it is only 'guidance') are crucial for hedgehogs. In the new year, the Hedgehog Street campaign I help run is launching the State of Britain's Hedgehogs 2022 - it will give more evidence to the problem. And we continue to see evidence that shows how crucial opening up our gardens is for the hedgehogs' ability to thrive.

This video, from the work of Jessica Schaus is one of the most important I have seen - and I use it regularly when giving talks. It shows just how many gardens hedgehogs can end up using. The more holes, the longer the highways, the fewer times the hedgehogs need to venture out onto the roads. Hedgehog Highways save lives, as well as allow hedgehogs to find more food, water, shelter and potential mates. 

So to the competition - very generously, Nigel Gilbert of Little Field Country Crafts, has donated FIVE hedgehog houses to the five winners ... and the winners are ...

Kirsty Brister - who's doorknob hedgehog was a delight!

University of Suffolk who are part of the Hedgehog Friendly Campus campaign.

Jennifer Manning-Ohren - an absolutely tireless champion of hedgehogs who set up Wild Things Keyworth.

Catriona Stuart - who has been working with Jennifer and has created a gorgeous ramp.

Richard Chandler who has made the very astute observation that hedgehogs can't read and in fact the best place to put a sign announcing the hedgehog highway is at human height!!

Congratulations to all five of them and thank you again to Nigel Gilbert.

This is probably going to be the last update before Christmas so I hope you all have a wonderful and peaceful time - and if any of you have still not bought all your presents, I can do little more than to remind you that not only have I written three books about hedgehogs ... but that I am very happy to send you signed bookplates if you send me an SAE ... send me a message if you want details.

Apologies for Amazon links ... it would be better if you can buy locally, of course.

A Prickly Affair - full of humour and eccentricity!

My book for Reaktion on the iconography of hedgehogs is back in print!

And most recently - The Hedgehog Book - lots of pictures!