Eldwick and Otley hedgehog rescuers make BBC wildlife award final

Stephanie Knowles, founder of Hedgehog Emergency Rescue, Bingley, Yorkshire (HERBY), based in Eldwick, and Diane Cook, founder of Prickly Pigs Hedgehog Rescue in Otley, were named as finalists in the prestigious BBC Spring Watch Wildlife Hero Awards.

Stephanie Knowles of Eldwick-based hedgehog rescue HERBY reaches the finals of a BBC wildlife award (Image: Newsquest)

Stephanie founded HERBY in 2013 and she and her team of around volunteers take care of the much-loved spiky animals, often after they have experienced an injury.

Diane Cook, the founder of Prickly Pigs Hedgehog Rescue, reached the finals of a BBC wildlife award (Image: submitted)

Despite not winning the final award, becoming a finalist with nearly 1,800 nominations is recognition that celebrates their tireless efforts and dedication to the conservation and rehabilitation of hedgehogs in the local community.

In post on Facebook, a spokesperson for HERBY said: "Steph made it to the final of Springwatch Wildlife Hero Award.

"She didn’t quite get to raise a trophy but we couldn’t be prouder.

"With almost 1,800 nominations, making it through to the final few is incredible.

"Congratulations also to Prickly Pigs, a fellow Yorkshire rescue, for reaching the final too."

Since establishing Prickly Pigs Hedgehog Rescue during lockdown in 2020, Diane and her team have provided critical care to hundreds of sick, injured, and orphaned hedgehogs.

A spokesperson for Prickly Pigs said: "Diane's hands-on approach involves everything from initial health assessments and treatments for parasites to long-term rehabilitation and eventual release back into the wild."

Diane Cook, the founder of Prickly Pigs Hedgehog Rescue, reached the finals of a BBC wildlife award (Image: UGC)

The rescue operates year-round, entirely dependent on public donations and fundraising to meet its financial needs.

The need for such rescue operations has become increasingly urgent, with Britain's hedgehog population declining by as much as 50 per cent in some areas over the past two decades.

A little hedgehog rescued by Diane Cook (Image: UGC)

The Prickly Pigs spokesperson added: "Diane's work not only addresses this decline by directly helping individual animals but she also raises public awareness about the plight of hedgehogs and educates the community on creating hedgehog-friendly environments.

"In addition to her rescue efforts, Diane is committed to inspiring the next generation of wildlife enthusiasts.

"She regularly visits local schools and youth groups, sharing her knowledge and passion for hedgehog conservation.

A little hedgehog rescued by Diane Cook (Image: UGC)

"Through these educational sessions, Diane aims to instil a sense of responsibility and stewardship in young people, encouraging them to take active roles in protecting their local hedgehogs and other wildlife.

"Through her dedication, Diane has significantly impacted local wildlife preservation, exemplifying the spirit of the BBC Spring Watch Wildlife Hero Awards.

"Her recognition as a finalist highlights the crucial role of grassroots initiatives in wildlife conservation and celebrates the community's collective efforts to protect these beloved creatures."