New hedgehog hospital opens near Newquay after community funding drive

A new purpose-built hedgehog wildlife hospital has opened near Newquay.

The facility, known as the “Hogspital”, has been created by the charity Prickles and Paws at the Carnanton Estate.

More than 80 supporters, volunteers and local representatives attended the official launch, where guests were given a behind-the-scenes tour of the new centre. Speeches were delivered by co-founders Katy South and Diane South, alongside chief executive John Lewis. Hugh Warwick, a patron of the charity, also addressed those gathered before the ribbon was cut.

The charity says the project has been entirely funded through public donations, corporate sponsors and charitable trusts.

Hedgehogs are now classified as vulnerable to extinction in the UK, and the charity currently helps more than 1,400 animals each year.

The new hospital is designed to expand that work, offering purpose-built clinical spaces for treatment and rehabilitation. The team had previously operated from converted outbuildings at a residential property, which they had outgrown.

The site also includes solar panels and battery storage to reduce energy costs and environmental impact.

Speaking at the launch, Katy South said the opening marked a major milestone for the charity.

She said: “After three long years of fundraising and construction, yesterday was a day of pure elation for the whole team. To move into spacious clinical rooms designed specifically for hedgehog care is an extraordinary milestone.

“When my mum and I founded the rescue nine years ago, we could never have imagined the level of support the charity would one day receive. We are profoundly grateful to every single person who helped make this possible.”

Chief executive John Lewis said the new centre represented “a significant step forward for hedgehog welfare in the region”.

He added: “As an independent charity that receives no government funding, sustained public support is essential. From just £3 per month, supporters can make a lasting and tangible difference to the lives of these remarkable animals.”

The charity is now inviting people to support its work through its regular giving scheme, “Prickle Planet”, to help fund ongoing care including food, medication and veterinary treatment.

Prickles and Paws also provides education, volunteering opportunities and conservation work alongside its rescue services.