First patients are admitted to new hedgehog rescue in Milton Keynes

It means that Milton Keynes now has its own centre dedicated to hedgehogs.

Caroline Mills is a long-term volunteer looking after the mammals, and decided to open up her garden to the creatures, whose numbers have been sharlpyl declining.

Loss of habitat, roads and a newly discovered illnesses are all playing their part in devastating numbers of the hogs, and the current extended periods of hot weather are creating more issues.

"It's a dream come true to be able to donate not just time, but space to helping these vulnerable animals," Caroline said,"My team of volunteers and I are so pleased we can finally get to work helping save lives, and rehabilitate those in need."

Nash Hedgehog Rescue will rely on the goodwill of supporters and donations, and to that end, Saturday's event raised £600 towards the £2000 needed for new pods at the centre.

Since Saturday's opening, nine hogs have already been admitted to the 'hogspital.'

"With the continuing hot, dry spell we anticipate that number will rise sharply," Caroline told us.

"May I remind everyone please to leave out shallow bowls of fresh water for wildlife in this hot weather — it can make a real difference to hedgehogs, birds, bees, and more."

"And a big thank you to everyone who came along, donated, volunteered, and shared our opening event. We are so grateful for all your support."