Overview
- Local rescuers say three girls at Greenhill Community Hub in mid-May were seen throwing a hedgehog and burying it in a plant pot before two boys found the animal and brought it to an adult.
- The hedgehog, nicknamed Hedgy, was taken to Haydock Hedgehog Helpers Rescue, given pain relief and warmth, and later died despite emergency care.
- Rescue volunteers reported the animal showed signs of prior illness, including low body temperature and flystrike, and its body has been sent to vets for a report and held for possible RSPCA examination.
- Lancashire Police’s South Rural Task Force confirmed an inquiry is under way and no arrests or charges have been publicly reported.
- Rescuers say they have received messages naming potential Year 7 suspects and will pass information to police, and veterinary and RSPCA findings could determine whether criminal or safeguarding steps follow.