Keith Jones was the co-founder of Hedgehog Helpline and dedicated almost four decades to the rescue, rehabilitation, conservation and education of one of Britain’s most iconic native mammals – the European hedgehog.
In 1988, alongside fellow founder Kay Bullen and Keith established what would become Hedgehog Helpline after the pair met through a shared passion for rescuing hedgehogs.
Throughout his volunteering, Keith had personally cared for thousands of sick, injured and orphaned hedgehogs, continually developing best practice in rehabilitation. His commitment to raising standards helped shape the organisation into a veterinary-led rescue, ensuring every animal receives the highest possible level of care before being returned to the wild.
Beyond rescue work, Keith was widely recognised for his dedication to education. He has delivered hundreds of talks to schools, community groups, environmental organisations and veterinary professionals, inspiring people of all ages to protect hedgehogs and create wildlife-friendly spaces. His passion for sharing knowledge has encouraged countless volunteers to become involved in wildlife conservation and has helped improve public understanding of the challenges facing this vulnerable species.
Keith was known for his unwavering commitment, compassion and practical expertise, Keith devoted much of his life to ensuring that future generations continue to share their gardens and countryside with hedgehogs.
His work has not only saved countless individual animals but has inspired thousands of people to play their own part in conserving Britain’s declining hedgehog population.
Keith retired from Hedgehog Helpline in 2018 although kept a close eye on developments and had formed an unbreakable bond with Graham.
Unfortunately, Keith passed away after a short illness in June 2022 he is still greatly missed by so many.
Keith’s legacy is one of dedication, innovation and education—demonstrating how one person’s passion for wildlife can make a lasting difference to a species in need.