A helpless hedgehog found with plastic tightly wrapped around its body has died.

The East Sussex Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service rescued the animal earlier this week after it was found injured in Montacute Way, Uckfield.

Rescuer Tony Neads picked the animal up from the scene to take it to the casualty centre in Whitesmith, Lewes, where it was examined under anaesthetic by the vet.

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The vet said the plastic had been wrapped so tightly around the hedgehog that it caused internal damage.

It also had a severely fractured rear leg with extensive tissue damage, along with an infection and maggots.

The hedgehog's injuries were so severe it had to be put down.

Founder of the charity Trevor Weeks MBE said: "We are unsure of the exact source of the plastic, but it appears to be the type of transparent plastic used for packaging large quantities of dried pet foods.

"Thankfully, the individual who found the hedgehog contacted us. It's distressing to imagine how long this poor creature would have endured suffering.

"This situation is disheartening as developments continue to expand in our county, leading to increased conflicts between wildlife and humans due to issues like litter, pollution, neglect, and persecution."