The team working to care for hedgehogs in Brightlingsea has launched an appeal for funds to build a new ‘hogspital’.

Brightlingsea Hedgehog Highways Rescue (BHHR) cares for orphaned, sick, poorly and injured hedgehogs and has outgrown its current accommodation.

The team are looking to raise £14,000 to fund the construction of a new purpose-built, energy-efficient and well-insulated base that will include a hedgehog intensive care unit, along with a sheltered outdoor area where recovering hedgehogs can learn to forage and make nests.

The money will also buy new incubators and help the BHHR’s eductation and community engagement work, allowing it to train volunteers and offer work experience to students completing their Duke of Edinburgh Awards or work placement through college courses.

“Specialist care is required with each case,” said Vicky Pudney of the non-profit BHHR. “Hedgehogs are very complex prey animals and will hide their needs. Please help us to help them.”

For more information and to donate, click here.