AN East Huntspill wildlife centre is getting ready to start the new year with a bang as it is set to host its first wildlife conference.

Secret World Wildlife Rescue is hosting the conference in February to bring together wildlife experts, charities and stakeholders from across the South West to explore new ways to support and protect injured wildlife.

The conference will feature lectures from a variety of wildlife experts as well as presentations and discussions on wildlife issues including hedgehog and badger rehabilitation, bat conservation and wildlife crime.

Pauline Kidner, founder of Secret World, said: “This is the first conference of its kind that we have hosted in our 26 year history and we’re really excited to finally announce the agenda and speakers ahead of the new year.

“British wildlife is under increased pressure from environmental impacts and changes in legislation and human behaviour, and that’s why we’re hosting the conference.

“If we want our wildlife to thrive for years to come, we must work better with the community and experts.”

Several keynote speakers have been confirmed for the conference including: Alex Barlow, wildlife pathologist for the Animal and Plant Health Agency, Lucy Bearman-Brown, hedgehog researcher at Hartpury College and Geoff Edmonds from the RSPCA.

The first day of the conference will focus on caring for wildlife in the wild and on the second day there will be a discussion about new treatments which are available to help injured wildlife.

The charity has extended its early bird tickets, which cost £70 for one day and £120 for two days until December 16.

After December 16 tickets will cost £80 for one day and £150 for both days.

The conference will take place from 10am until 5pm on February 9 and 10 2019 and is open to anyone who wants to attend.

The venue has not yet been confirmed but details will be posted on the charity's website.

To book tickets or to see programmes for the two-day event, visit secretworld.org/event/swwr-caring-for-british-wildlife-conference-2019/