Two piglets found dumped along a driveway in Glastonbury have been given a fresh start after being rescued in poor condition.

Emma and Ellie, who are now three months old, were discovered on 13 February, crying out in distress, the RSPCA said.

The sisters were taken into RSPCA care, where they were given proper food and clean bedding for a month.

They have now moved to Bicton Agricultural College, near Exeter, where they have joined The Animal Zone, home to more than 130 species.

RSPCA animal rescue officer Clara Scully said the pair were underweight and desperate for help when she arrived.

She said: "I was shocked to see the condition they were in, but before I even saw them, I could hear them calling and crying out, letting us know they were starving and desperately seeking help.

"It's been wonderful to see their transformation over the last few weeks; they are now gaining weight and are full of personality."

Emma and Ellie are now sharing their new home with Kune Kune Matilda and Vietnamese Pot-Bellied Pigs Dylan and Wallace, who also came from the RSPCA.

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Animal Zone manager Miles Price said the piglets had quickly become favourites with staff.

He said they would have a home for life at Bicton College, where they will help teach students about the intelligent and complex nature of pigs.

The rescue comes as the RSPCA warns animal abandonment is rising as cost of living pressures continue to affect owners.

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