Cheshire Families and Schools Embark on Timmy Time Hedgehog Walk Adventure
Get ready for an exciting outdoor adventure as families, schools, and clubs across Cheshire are called to take big steps for nature. In a delightful partnership with the multi-award-winning Aardman studio's Timmy Time, The Wildlife Trusts are launching The Hedgehog Walk, a fun and family-friendly fundraising challenge that invites participants to walk, wheel, crawl, or roll 3km. This distance mirrors how far a hedgehog typically wanders in just one night, making it a perfect way for young wildlife enthusiasts to explore the outdoors together while learning to care for our prickly friends.
Making a Difference for Hedgehogs in Decline
With hedgehog numbers having plummeted by 30% in just over 10 years, there are now believed to be fewer than one million left in the UK. The Hedgehog Walk, timed to coincide with when hedgehogs start emerging from hibernation, aims to raise vital funds and awareness for these creatures. Kat Wade, fundraising manager at Cheshire Wildlife Trust, emphasized the importance of the event, stating, "The Hedgehog Walk is a fantastic way to experience more of nature this spring." She added, "We're lucky here in Cheshire to have so many great places to explore, from parks in our towns and cities, to Delamere Forest and the beaches along the Wirral coast."
Community Engagement and Educational Opportunities
Rachael Peacock, head of brand marketing at Aardman, creators of Timmy Time, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, "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." Participants who sign up will receive a downloadable activity pack filled with Timmy Time fun, including:
- Posters and activity sheets
- Fact sheets and tracking timelines
- Resources to help mark the 3km milestone
This pack is designed to spark curiosity and teach young enthusiasts how to care for the natural world, while also providing tools for fundraising.
How to Get Involved and Share the Experience
Whether you're toddling through a park with Timmy, marching through woods with Apricot, or counting laps in a playground with Bumpy, every step contributes to building a better future for wildlife. To join the adventure, visit the Cheshire Wildlife Trust website and use the hashtag #HedgehogWalk on social media to share your journey. This initiative not only supports hedgehog conservation but also fosters a love for nature among Cheshire's youngest residents, encouraging them to protect wildlife right on their doorstep.
