Photo attached Soroptimist Caryn Hewitt with Joan and Rosie
Who knew that finding a hedgehog called Spike would lead to 23 years of dedication and a hedgehog charity for Joan Lockley!
Joan spoke to members of S.I. Cannock and District recently explaining how her charity ‘West Midlands Hedgehog Rescue’ which started in her back garden, now continues with volunteers from around Staffordshire and the West Midlands helping to continue the amazing work this lady does.
Members now know what to do should they find a hedgehog or hoglets out during the day as they are nocturnal. They also know not to give them milk but make sure fresh water is available especially during hot weather.
Everyone was thrilled to meet Rosie, Joan’s blind hedgehog who can never be released into the wild unlike the approximately 800 Joan hopes will be released after lots of T.L.C.
40 years ago, there were approximately 36 million hedgehogs in the country. Numbers have now dwindled to approximately 500,000. Disappearing habitat is a major factor in their decline which could sadly mean they could eventually become extinct.
To honour her efforts in setting up her Hedgehog ‘Hosprickle’ Joan has been awarded the BEM. She attended a Royal Garden Party in May and will travel to London later in the year to be presented with her award.
A collection box was passed around at the meeting and Joan was very grateful for the donations . She is also always in need of meat based cat food, clean newspapers and clean towels
For more information on the work Joan and her team do please visit her website www.wmhr.org or their Facebook page @West Midlands Hedgehog Rescue