Hedgehogs deserve banknote place, says charity

A hedgehog conservation charity has urged people to back the mammal in a public vote to decide which British wildlife species could appear on future banknotes.

The Bank of England is asking the public to help choose animals, birds and insects that could feature on the next generation of £5, £10, £20 and £50 notes.

Among the 18 species shortlisted is the European hedgehog, which has prompted support from the British Hedgehog Preservation Society, based in Ludlow, Shropshire.

Fay Vass, chief executive of the charity, said the species was "one of Britain's most loved wild mammals" despite suffering significant population declines in recent decades.

She said featuring hedgehogs on banknotes would celebrate an important part of the UK's natural heritage, while also raising awareness of the challenges facing the animals.

"We are delighted that the Bank of England has launched a public consultation to decide which UK wildlife species could feature on future banknotes - and that the hedgehog is among those being considered," Vass said.

"The hedgehog is one of Britain's most loved wild mammals, yet its populations have declined dramatically in recent decades.

"As a species that has shared our gardens, parks and countryside for millennia, it deserves both recognition and protection."

The public consultation closes on 3 July, with people able to vote for their favourite species from a shortlist that also includes red foxes, brown hares, kingfishers, barn owls and buff-tailed bumblebees.

Vass added: "Featuring hedgehogs on banknotes would be a wonderful way to celebrate an iconic part of our natural heritage, while raising awareness of the challenges facing these remarkable spiny mammals.

"Greater visibility can help inspire more people to support conservation efforts and take simple actions to make their gardens and communities more hedgehog-friendly."

While the public can have their say, the final decision on which animals appear on future notes will be made by Bank of England governor, Andrew Bailey.

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