CHILDREN could well come across a prickly customer during their half-term holiday.

Harry the Hedgehog - countryside officer Richard Buckley, in disguise - is promoting wildlife interest among youngsters this week.

Artist Nigel Dobbyn, from Guisborough, who is now working for the Beano, but drew the famous hedgehog for the Sonic the Comic publication, was brought in by Middlesbrough Council to create a hedgehog discovery pack, to be distributed to youngsters visiting local nature reserves across the town.

At these events, families can make models of hedgehogs, take part in wildlife games and crafts as well as pick up tips on how to attract hedgehogs into their gardens at home.

Sue Antrobus, wildspace officer with the council, said: "These are free and fun-filled events and a great excuse to get families out and about enjoying Middlesbrough's local nature reserves this autumn.

"Hedgehogs do very well in Middlesbrough nature reserves, parks and gardens and it is a mammal that everyone loves to see.''