A wildlife charity is facing a cash crisis because of soaring numbers of casualties rescued in recent weeks.

East Sussex Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service (WRAS), may be forced to limit the number of calls it responds to as it struggles to manage its finances.

November is usually a quiet time of year for WRAS.

This time last year rescuers were dealing with an average of one casualty a day but this year it is more like four cases a day.

WRAS normally uses the quiet time to replenish funds in preparation for the winter season.

The organisation's committee will meet on Thursday, when its members will discuss some tough budget restraints.

WRAS estimates that it costs an average £105 to take care of a rescued hedgehog during a single winter and has warned it could have to reduce the number of animals it can help.

Also under threat is the number which can be given veterinary treatment.

The organisation has paid for equipment for the inevitable number of oiled birds which need rescuing in the winter but is desperately short of cash.

A spokesman said: "WRAS rescuers undertake a huge amount of work dealing with over 2,000 call-outs a year but receive relatively little funding for it.

"WRAS is urging as many people as possible to help make the charity as secure an organisation as possible by taking out standing orders to donate a small amount on a monthly basis."

He added: "WRAS is in urgent need of finances to help build up strength to deal with the hedgehog and oiled bird seasons."