A VET surgery has stepped in to run a hedgehog rescue centre after the previous dedicated owner had to step down.

Maureen Webb started rescuing hedgehogs 24 years ago and set up the Furzepig Hedgehog Rescue 14 years ago in Bridstow with her husband, Derek.

But following the death of Mr Webb, aged 66, last August, she has decided to close the centre.

She said: "I am heartbroken. I have been doing it for so long- it is my way of life.

"After Derek died I carried on- I wasn't going to give up. But it is financial too- I couldn't afford to do it anymore."

Mrs Webb said it cost £10,000 a year to run the centre.

VineTree Vets in Walford Road, Ross-on-Wye has stepped in and will now run Pins & Needles Hedgehog Rescue. Mrs Webb will continue to be actively involved as an advisor.

The vets' owner, Simon Lyddon, said: "We can do it here- one of the big burdens she carried was in terms of the treatment the hedgehogs required initially.

"We are offering that in-house- a 24 hour service."

The centre will be entirely separate from the vets, and will be not-for-profit. Any donations will be gratefully received including tins of cat food (no fish), dog food (no gravy), kitten biscuits and dried mealworms. Fosterers will also be needed to help care for the hogs.

If you think you can help contact the surgery on 01989 564687.

The Hedgehog Festival takes place in Ross until May 10.