A YORK is asking residents of the city to use the nationwide lock down to help wildlife in their gardens.

Emma Farley, who runs the Little Silver Hedgehog hospital in Acomb, has launched the plea to the city.

Emma, whose York hospital has just celebrated its 7th birthday, has nursed hundreds of sick and injured hedgehogs back to health.

She said: “Now is a great time to let your imaginations run wild and design a giant bug hotel or sow a wildflower meadow in a quiet area of your garden.

“You’ll be amazed what you can create with bits and pieces lying around in your shed or garage.

“Many hedgehogs are also starting to emerge from hibernation. Leaving out food and water and creating a hedgehog feeding station is a really rewarding activity that will also help save wild lives.”

Emma has also warned about the dangers for wildlife of people spending more time in their gardens.

She is asking residents to avoid cutting or strimming in their gardens too often as this could harm wildlife. If they are working on their gardens, they should check for any wildlife beforehand to avoid any accidents.

Emma went on to say: “Lawns left longer and where daisies and dandelions are allowed to flourish are much better for wildlife.

“Long grass provides fabulous foraging for hedgehogs who will even tear off mouthfuls to add to their homes.

“Sheds and decking are favoured spots for hedgehog nests and care should be taken to avoid disturbing them.”

The Little Silver Hedgehog website can be accessed at: www.littlesilverhedgehog.com