Charity needs volunteer drivers for animal rescues

A wildlife charity has said it urgently needs more volunteer drivers to help it rescue animals.

Secret World Wildlife Rescue in East Huntspill, near Highbridge in Somerset, takes in as many as 50 animals a day during its peak season.

The charity is searching for new volunteers to drive wildlife to and from the vets and help out as a driver during rescue operations.

"I've rescued badgers, foxes, lots of different types of birds of prey, herons, swans - probably the most difficult to catch is a swan," said wildlife volunteer and ambulance driver Tracy Abbot.

Ms Abbot said living in the Quantocks gave her a love of wildlife and she has "always wanted" to volunteer.

"As soon as I took early retirement I thought this is the time to do it," she added.

Last summer, Secret World had to temporarily reduce its catchment area due to high demand and a lack of volunteers.

The charity has said it is still urgently in need of volunteer drivers who can do regular shifts.

Ms Abbot said: "Once you get drawn into animal rescue you can get drawn in hook, line and sinker.

"To watch them be released and see how energetic they are, you think well we've done our job properly because they're acting like they should be and that's incredibly satisfying."

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