STAFF at an animal sanctuary have turned to massage to deal with a prickly problem — a hedgehog suffering from baldness.

       The critter, who they have called Alan, was found underweight and missing his spines by a member of the public last month.

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       The critter, who they have called Alan, was found underweight and missing his spines by a member of the public last month Credit: Jeff Moore 2

       After his bit of stubble trouble, he’s finally growing strong and spiky again Credit: Jeff Moore

       Carers said he would not have survived hibernation.

       The nurses diagnosed him with the fungal infection ringworm.

       After 30 days of medicine — and some indulging over Christmas to bulk Alan up a little — they began daily rub-downs with soothing aloe vera gel.

       And now they are seeing the point of their all hard work.

       After his bit of stubble trouble, he’s finally growing strong and spiky again.

       Volunteers at Tiggywinkles, in Haddenham, Bucks, say he will be released back into the wild when he has fully recovered.

       And what is Alan’s verdict on his pampering? Bristle do nicely, thanks.

       Hedgehog rescued by Donegal gardai on patrol after getting its head stuck in a milkshake cup