LEYLAND HEDGEHOG RESCUE

"We were made to feel very welcome when we pitched on behalf of Leyland Hedgehog Rescue. Peter and I feel very passionately about supporting Leyland Hedgehog Rescue after realising that our lovable native mammals are in serious threat.  It is believed that around 60 years ago, 36 million hedgehogs were snuffling around in UK gardens. Now there are thought to be closer to one million left.  With the current status of the European hedgehog listed as 'Vulnerable to extinction' they are thought to be at risk of full extinction by 2050 unless something is done.

"The cause of the decline in the hedgehog population includes factors such as habitat loss, the use of pesticides, road mortality, food scarcity and environmental factors such as the changing climate.  With this being said, every single individual hedgehog is vital to the numbers overall and as such it is important we try to save as many as possible

"Leyland Hedgehog Rescue was founded and is run by Mary Swindlehurst and her team of volunteers using money raised through fundraising events and donations made by members of the public. The hedgehogs in their care are brought to them because they are sick, injured, underweight or orphaned. The rescue, which is not a registered charity, is dedicated to the preservation and rehabilitation of these hedgehogs.

"The main aim of Leyland Hedgehog Rescue is to ensure the hedgehogs receive the necessary care and nutrition to recover from illnesses or injuries, to rehabilitate the hedgehogs for release back into the wild and to raise public awareness about the endangered status of the European hedgehog. Their work includes assessments, treatments, delivering medications and vet visits.  The rescue also provides advice to members of the public, shares vital information via their social media platforms, fund raises, and runs educational and awareness talks.

"Money donated by Leyland Rotary Club through Pitch4Pounds will be spent on vital equipment such as syringes, microscopy slides, medication, vet bills and food for the animals in their care. 

"Peter and I were excited to receive such a supportive response from Leyland Rotary members who seemed really interested in our cause and genuinely wanted to help.  We were extremely happy to find out our pitch had been successful and Mary and her team, and of course the hedgehogs, will benefit from our efforts".