Tributes paid to popular founder of Keyford Hedgehog Rescue

Tributes have been paid to the Keyford Hedgehog Rescue and Rehab member, Graham Gillions, who died on Saturday 3rd January following a short illness.

Graham was a popular Frome resident who set up and ran Keyford Hedgehog Rescue and Rehab,  with his partner Jennie Owen, in a bid to help the town’s hedgehog population thrive.

Mayor of Frome Cllr Anita Collier said, “Frome is a town full of wonderful, remarkable people, working hard to make the world a better place. There’s no doubt at all that Graham Gillions was one of them.

“We hosted Graham at a council meeting last year; talking about his work with Keyford Hedgehog Rescue and his passion for hedgehog conservation was so evident, as well as his enormous knowledge, his warmth and his kindness. We were so sorry to hear the news and our thoughts are with everyone who loved and knew Graham – thank you to him for all his work.”

His partner, Jennie Owen, said, “Graham was not only a beloved partner but the heart of Keyford Hedgehog Rescue. His compassion, dedication, and expertise touched the lives of countless hedgehogs and the people who cared about them. Whether he was giving educational talks, responding to rescue calls, or working behind the scenes, Graham’s commitment to hedgehog conservation was unwavering.”

Tributes have also flooded in for Graham on the Keyford Hedgehog Rescue and Rehab’s Facebook page, with many residents sharing their condolences.

A celebration of Graham’s life was held at Frome Town Hall on Monday 12th January. Donations can be made in Graham’s memory to Keyford Hedgehog Rescue at www.keyfordhedgehogrescue.uk/support-us

Pictured: Graham Gillions