Volunteers are being sought to help toads cross the road in Castle Cary.

As spring approaches, toads will soon be emerging from hibernation and looking for mates in the area – and the Somerset Wildlife Trust (SWT) is looking for people to keep the little amphibians safe from traffic on a busy stretch of road. Amphibian expert Dave Boyer said: "Many toads face a fateful journey across dangerous roads in Somerset.

"The SWT is therefore organising regular toad traffic patrols at a notorious toad crossing near Castle Cary, and we'll be monitoring another suspected crossing to ascertain whether intervention is needed there too. Toads are in decline in the UK. Patrols like this one will help them survive and not end up on the endangered species list.

"If you can spare a couple of hours for just one evening a week, throughout March and early April, we would love to hear from you."

Patrols will take place on wet and warm evenings from dusk until about 10.30pm. Volunteers will be given high-visibility jackets to wear, and patrols will cease in April depending on the weather.

Anyone wishing to get involved can contact Mr Boyer on 01963 350418, or email him on boyer@orchard-farm.co.uk.

For more information on the Somerset Wildlife Trust, go online to www.somersetwildlife.org.