Prickles Hedgehog Rescue, a charity dedicated to saving hedgehogs in the Somerset area, has been given a lifeline after facing potential closure. Based in Cheddar, Prickles has spent nearly two decades rescuing and rehabilitating injured, sick, and orphaned hedgehogs, helping to protect this vulnerable species.
The charity depends heavily on donations, fundraising events, and income from their charity shop located on Union Street in Cheddar. Recently, Prickles faced a crisis when the planned sale of their shop threatened to cut off vital funding, raising the possibility of the rescue center shutting down.
In a heartening turn of events, a GoFundMe campaign launched by supporters raised over £45,000, providing critical short-term financial relief. Additionally, the shop’s sale fell through, allowing it to remain open and continue generating revenue for the charity.
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Despite these successes, Prickles Hedgehog Rescue, staffed entirely by volunteers, still faces significant financial uncertainty. With annual costs exceeding £100,000, founder Jules Bishop emphasized the ongoing challenges: “I am overjoyed by the community’s generosity, which has secured funding until Christmas. However, we must explore every avenue to ensure the charity’s long-term sustainability.”
Volunteers and local residents alike have been inspired by the public’s support, underscoring the vital role Prickles plays in conserving hedgehogs, which are now legally protected due to their declining numbers.
Having rescued over 8,000 hedgehogs in 18 years, Prickles continues to be a crucial part of wildlife conservation in Somerset — but the journey to secure a stable future is far from over.