Stray allotment pigs wreak havoc

The RSPCA is looking to rehome the pigs as pets

Two runaway pigs have been causing chaos at an Oxfordshire allotment site.

The pigs have been munching their way through plants and vegetables at Stockham Park in Wantage since just before Christmas.

Allotment holders want to start planting for the spring but not before the pigs have moved out.

The RSPCA said it was trying to trace the animals' owners or rehome them. A spokesperson said it did not want to see the pigs shot dead.

They believe the pigs are the Gloucester Old Spot breed, but it is thought they could also be the rarer Oxford Sandy and Blacks.

RSPCA inspector Sharon Chrisp said she had seen one pig, but allotment holders have reported seeing two of them.

"The female pig is in good condition as she has access to water and has been helping herself to meals by way of vegetables and other food from the allotments," Ms Chrisp said.

If the owner can't be found then we are looking for someone who has porcine experience Sharon Chrisp, RSPCA inspector

"Obviously this is not an acceptable situation and the allotment holders are understandably upset about the damage to their crops.

"Some people have even suggested that the pigs should be shot - which we are desperate to avoid.

"We have made local enquiries but have been unable to discover where this pig or pigs came from.

"If the owner can't be found then we are looking for someone who has porcine experience who would be willing to offer these pigs a suitable home as pets."