A young fox found with cataracts in both eyes has had his sight restored by vets in the New Forest.

The six-month-old, who has been named Ricky, was found cowering in a corner as vehicles and pedestrians passed close by.

He had no energy, displayed little emotion, and lay still as people around him went about their daily lives.

Daily Echo: Ricky undergoes an operation performed by Seadown vet Kate McMorrisRicky undergoes an operation performed by Seadown vet Kate McMorris (Image: Seadown/CVS)

But members of the charity Fox Angels were alerted and collected the fox, whose sight has now been restored by Seadown Veterinary Services in Hythe.

The operation was carried out by an ophthalmic vet, Kate McMorris, who found herself performing surgery on a fox for the first time.

Ricky was found in Twickenham, London, and arrived at Seadown via a Southampton fox sanctuary run by Steve Mason.

Daily Echo: Ricky is doing well after having both cataracts removedRicky is doing well after having both cataracts removed (Image: Seadown/CVS)

Seadown clinical director Anna Jennings said: "Poor Ricky had cataracts in both eyes and was blind. Probably as a consequence of this, he was also very quiet and subdued.

"Ricky had a general anaesthetic and both cataracts were removed.

"All went well and Mr Mason was very dedicated in his care of Ricky, administering drops to both eyes before and after the operation.

"Ricky has since been re-examined. He appears to be seeing well and is much more keen to get outside, even playing with a ball - which has been wonderful to see."

READ MORE: Southampton animal sanctuary warns that foxes are being targeted by hunters

His story is being used to highlight the many threats to red foxes across the UK.

Mr Mason said: "They have been persecuted and mistreated for many decades and are losing their natural habitat very quickly.

"We now see a lot more foxes moving into urban areas and because of this there are many more road casualties and injuries to these beautiful creatures.

"Many are left to die a lingering death if not treated quickly.

"We are so grateful to members of the public who called us to let us know about Ricky and really appreciate the kindness and wonderful treatment he has received at Seadown. They have been amazing.

"Ricky has been given a second chance at life and it's brilliant to watch him engaging with the world around him now he can see."

It is not unusual for foxes to get cataracts but most of those who develop the condition are older than Ricky.

A Seadown spokesperson said: "If the fox had not been found, there is no doubt he would not have survived."