AN INJURED deer has been nursed back to health at East Huntspill’s Secret World Wildlife Rescue Centre after it was rescued from the side of a road by police.

A member of the public called Avon and Somerset Police with concerns for the young deer, which had been badly injured.

It was in a distressed state at the side of a road in Churchill so the concerned person quickly raised the alarm.

When officers arrived, they discovered it was in need of care and alerted Secret World Wildlife Rescue. They arranged for a volunteer to bring the animal to their centre, where they have a dedicated deer unit.

PC Rob Browne said: “When we arrived at the scene, the animal seemed shaken and distressed.

“We were delighted to see that he wasn’t as badly hurt as we had first feared.

“We wanted to ensure that he was well looked after so our control room contacted Secret World. “I’m pleased to hear that he has since made a full recovery and has been safely returned to the wild where he belongs.”

Graeme Thompson, volunteer rescuer for Secret World, said: “The young male roe deer appeared to be in shock, possibly after being struck by a vehicle, which can cause temporary blindness.

“They are very sensitive animals and have a delicate temperament. “The team at Secret World nursed it back to full health and we released him back into the wild.

My wife Vicki and I have volunteered with Secret World since we retired as teachers in 2004.

“Vicki volunteers one day a week in the animal hospital, helping small mammals and we foster baby animals – like wild rabbits and hedgehogs – at home.”

“Members of the public are very important when it comes to a successful rescue. It’s all about teamwork.”

Jess Crabtree, rescue section leader at Secret World, said: “We rely on members of the public to call us about injured wild animals, like this deer.

“This means we can respond quickly and help them make a full recovery. “If you come across an injured wild animal, please call us on 01278 783250.

“With our network of Secret World Response Drivers (SWRDs) like Graeme, we can get animals in for treatment as quickly as possible.

“If you’d like to volunteer as a Secret World Response Drivers we’d love to hear from you.”