March 1, 2001 9:20: AN ANIMAL hospital has closed its doors to the public to protect itself from the foot and mouth virus.

St Tiggywinkles, Aston Road, Haddenham, takes in, treats and rehabilitates sick, injured and orphaned British wildlife.

The hospital does not have the virus and has taken this action voluntarily as a precaution.

Most of its work is unaffected by the outbreak of foot and mouth, but there are problems with deer and hedgehogs, which can carry the dreaded virus.

Founder of the hospital, Les Stocker said: "It's an absolute nightmare. Deer and hedgehogs are restricted animals so we have to make alternative arrangements."

He added: "We've had to close the visitor centre and everybody who goes in has to go through a foot wash."

The animals which were already at the hospital have been put under quarantine.

There are currently about 80 deer and more than 300 hedgehogs at the hospital.

Restrictions on the movement on deer and hedgehogs were brought in by the Government after the recent outbreaks of foot and mouth.

They will be looked at again when the situation improves.

But people who find sick or injured hedgehogs are still urged to phone the hospital. However, they cannot take the creatures to St Tiggywinkles.

Mr Stocker said: "If somebody phone up with a hedgehog needing treatment, two paramedics will come and treat it in the house.

He added: "They have a cage where it can be safely kept in and they can do home visits but the hedgehogs can't be moved."

Anyone who finds a sick animal can phone the hospital on (01844) 292292

Joe Slade