A local hedgehog rescue, well supported by the local community and funded mostly through private donations, has announced that it has won charity status.

Prickleback Urchin Hedgehog Rescue has been supporting the local hedgehog population since July 2021.

Run by Rachel and Jay, the pair have tended to hundreds of hogs in their home-come hedgehog sanctuary over the last two and a half years, and have welcomed their new status as their rescue continues to grow in popularity and demand.

The team took to social media to share the news: "We are thrilled to announce that today we have been successful in our bid to gain charity status!

"We have been working hard in the background with our Trustees to complete the process and are delighted to inform you that our application has been successful.

The team have offered their heartfelt thanks. Image credit: Prickleback Urchin Hedgehog Rescue.

"A heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you who have supported our journey from fledgling rescue to charity status. We are so proud of Prickleback Urchin Hedgehog Rescue and forever grateful for continued support we receive from you all. We could not do it without you.

"We look forward to many more years of supporting sick, injured and orphaned hedgehogs from Rutland and the surrounding areas. Together we can make a difference!"

The pair don't only offer support to sick or injured hedgehogs, with the guidance and hard work of Rutland Veterinary Centre, but also share useful advice on supporting the local hedgehog population from your garden, local park or other green spaces.

Find out more, including how you can support the endangered species, on the Prickleback Urchin Hedgehog Rescue Facebook page.

Congratulations to Rachel and Jay!

Get in touch to share your own good news, fund-raising events and much more by emailing [email protected].