Polegate Mayor, Cllr Dan Dunbar, has presented a cheque for £1,135.30 to Trevor Weeks, Founding Director of East Sussex Wildlife Rescue & Ambulance Service (WRAS). The funds were raised over the past 12 months through a series of community events hosted by the Mayor, reflecting the generosity and strong community spirit of Polegate residents.
The donation comes at a crucial time for WRAS as the charity prepares to enter its busiest period of the year. Demand for its services increases significantly during the spring and summer months, placing added pressure on its resources and volunteers.
Mayor Dunbar said: “Over the past 12 months, I’ve been raising funds for WRAS, and as they enter their busiest season, their need for support is greater than ever. Please consider nominating them as your workplace or organisation’s chosen charity.”
During the Mayor’s current term of office, nearly 240 wildlife emergencies have been recorded in Polegate alone, highlighting the growing need for wildlife rescue services in the area. From 1 May 2025 to 31 March 2026, WRAS responded to 238 casualties locally, with peak activity occurring during the summer months.
Hedgehogs remain the most commonly rescued species, accounting for 52 cases, followed by Wood Pigeons (30), Herring Gulls (28), and Feral Pigeons (27). Other species assisted include Blackbirds, Jackdaws, Mallard Ducks, Collared Doves, House Sparrows, and Crows. Hedgehogs alone represent more than one in five rescues, underlining the challenges faced by this much-loved native species.
These figures not only demonstrate the increasing pressures on local wildlife but also emphasise the vital role WRAS plays in supporting both animals and the wider community.
WRAS is now calling for a final push of support as it heads into peak season. Volunteers, fundraising efforts, and donations are all essential to ensure the charity can continue its lifesaving work. Continued community support will help ensure that help is always available when it is needed most.
