SINCE December 1 the Government, in its wisdom, has tightened up regulations affecting the grey squirrel along with Egyptian geese and muntjac deer.

These regulations will not only affect the creatures concerned but also wildlife rescue centres throughout the country along with

veterinary surgeons and in fact any caring person who chances to find an orphaned or injured squirrel. It is also suggested that these creatures should be euthanased.

Wildlife rescue centres and veterinary surgeons are not in the habit of euthanasing healthy wildlife so where does this leave us?

Many veterinary surgeons pass on squirrels to wildlife rescue centres and, under the new restrictions, if we take in squirrels we will be opening ourselves up to hefty fines or even a prison sentence. All this for helping distressed wildlife.

The Government says that any squirrels helped must not be re-released but can be kept in captivity, neutered and, under no circumstances, be allowed to escape.

Grey squirrels are part of British wildlife now and, although introduced from America, it seems rescue centres, vets etc are being penalised for this fact as if it is them that introduced them to this country.

So what of the squirrel? Do we all obey these new restrictions and kill any squirrels brought to us at the vets or rescue centres or suddenly do we all become criminals by caring, tending and re-releasing these much loved creatures?

I am aware in certain ecological circumstances where the grey squirrel may be causing problems for more endangered species then an organised cull would be necessary, but surely it wouldn't hurt to exempt veterinary surgeons and rescue centres from these restrictions.

Who will be fined or imprisoned; the vet who passes on a squirrel, the rescue centre receiving it or the person who found the animal and took it to the vet for help?

We have an important election around the corner and I would like any candidates to answer my points in The Argus and let us know your feelings on this matter. In the meantime I am at a loss as to what to do from now on and feel we are all being punished for caring.

Roger Musselle, Roger's Wildlife Rescue, Downs Valley Road, Woodingdean