A much-loved RSPCA rescuer who dedicated her life to saving thousands of animals, including wildlife brought to Nantwich, has died aged 50.

Sonia Hulme, from Stockport, passed away on October 15 following a short illness related to cancer she had battled three years ago.

The mother-of-five spent 20 years working for the RSPCA, but her love for animals extended far beyond her day job.

Sonia regularly gave up her evenings to rescue and rehabilitate injured wildlife, sometimes enlisting the help of her children to care for vulnerable animals.

Her dedication saw her transform the garage of her family home into a temporary wildlife refuge, where she cared for injured creatures before taking them to Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre in Nantwich.

During busy spring and summer months, Sonia could find herself caring for hundreds of animals, including ducklings, fox cubs, goslings, swans, hedgehogs and mice.



Her passion was so well known that local residents would sometimes bring injured wildlife straight to her door, even when she was in bed.

Sonia spent 12 years working with RSPCA officers in Merseyside and Cheshire before serving the Greater Manchester area for the final eight years of her career.

Manager at Stapeley Grange, Lee Stewart, mpaid tribute to Sonia's extraordinary commitment to animals.

He said: "The Stapeley team could always count on Sonia, often giving up her own time to help animals in need.

"And in return, we would always do our best to squeeze something into the hospital for her, we could not say no.

"She leaves a lasting legacy, and her passion, kindness and commitment to animals will never be forgotten."

In recognition of her dedication, all 22 of the RSPCA's self-funded branches in the North West will establish the Sonia Hulme Wildlife Fund, launching with £15,000 to support wildlife rescue and rehabilitation.

RSPCA Chief Inspector Nina Small said Sonia always made time to help an animal in need, regardless of whether it was convenient.

Away from rescue work, Sonia loved her five collie dogs and competed with them in flyball events.

Her champion dog, Wonderpants, even appeared with her on BBC Breakfast.

Sonia leaves behind her five children, Bethany, Aidan, Connor, Erin and Finley, and two grandchildren, Grace and Maisie.

She will be laid to rest in the RSPCA uniform she proudly wore throughout her career.

Her funeral will take place at Rowans Chapel, Stockport Crematorium, on Monday 9 November.

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