A slightly portly hedgehog ended up wedged between two metal fences at a leisure centre, prompting an RSPCA rescue mission on Friday.

Herts Advertiser: The hedgehog stuck between fences at Cotlandswick Leisure CentreThe hedgehog stuck between fences at Cotlandswick Leisure Centre (Image: Archant)

The hog had attempted to squeeze between the panels outside Cotlandswick Leisure Centre in London Colney when he became stuck, and was spotted by a passer-by who contacted the RSPCA.

On arrival, the inspector removed the hog from the rather pricky situation using specialised equipment, and released him back into the wild.

Luckily the “rather sweet” hog was unscathed and proved to be quite healthy, despite his slightly traumatic experience.

Herts RSPCA spokesperson Laura Quinn said: “It was quite a sight to behold on a hot summer evening!

“He seemed happy enough, he was nice and fat and looked very healthy, which is always good to see, especially now that hedgehog numbers are in decline in the UK.”

She added: “I thought perhaps he might have been on his way to the gym but I guess he must have decided to give it a miss!”