AFTER a huge surge in the arrival of animals in need of help, the Orsett-based South Essex Wildlife Hospital has appealed to local people and businesses for donations of food.

A spokesperson for the hospital said: "It's been an incredibly busy few months for us here at SEWH - in fact, we already have more than 1,000 patients more than this time last year!

"With so many creatures relying on our help, we are rapidly running out of wet cat and dog food needed to help our foxes, badgers, hedgehogs and more thrive ... so we are asking for your help in making sure we can keep our patients well fed.

"If you would like to donate food directly, you can find what we need on our Amazon Wishlist at https://amzn.to/43vgA21.

Alternatively, please drop off any donations of wet cat or dog food (ideally not fish flavours please) at our hospital in Orsett (RM16 3BH)."