Martin started rehabilitation work with wildlife in 1995, working seven years as a volunteer for a wildlife rescue centre, where he eventually became hospital manager.

Martin then decided to go it alone and, in the early days, worked from home. However, as space for equipment and wildlife casualties restricted his work, he increasingly relied upon support from the veterinary profession and general public.

He now has a dedicated premises, set in fifteen acres of land, which works closely with Doe Meadow.

Martin says: "Why do I do it? Apart from my love of animals, I firmly believe that every living creature deserves a second chance and, to quote a well known rehabilitator: 'An animal only owns one thing... its life'."

Unlike many wildlife centres, Martin is on call twenty-four hours a day, travelling to locations within a twenty mile radius of his home, funding himself and relying on donations from a grateful and generous public.

Growing awareness has meant an increase in the number of incoming wildlife casualties and the need for expansion. Of course, with expansion comes overheads and running costs. The hospital has required rewiring, plus there is a continuing need to acquire and maintain vital equipment such as incubators, cages, heat lamps, materials for aviaries and mammal pens, as well as food, drugs and the cost of veterinary bills.

As a wildlife rehabilitator Martin also attends fetes and fundraising events. He also runs workshops at Doe Meadow and gives talks on wildlife, as well as taking groups of people on bat walks and nature rambles.