A PETITION has been set up to try to save 53 pigs which are due to be put down following a court hearing yesterday (Thursday).

The pigs were among more than 200 animals removed from Bramble Hall Farm in Pembroke Dock in January following major animal welfare concerns and arrests over an alleged illegal smokies operation.

Yesterday's case was to formalise what happens to the 53 pigs, 80 sheep, three goats, 58 dogs, 20 horses and one donkey removed from the farm.

The court heard horrific details that "a number of chained sheep carcasses" were found "with 20 pigs and piglets competing with each other to feed on the carcasses.”

A video of the scene was shown to the court.

The court heard the pigs would have to be destroyed due to them all having access to animal by-products, presenting a risk to public health if they found their way in to the food supply chain.

The application by Pembrokeshire County Council was approved by magistrates.

But since then a petition calling for the pigs to be spared has amassed more than 650 signatures in less than one day.

The petition is hosted at 38 Degrees.

It states: "These pigs were rescued from a life of abuse where through neglect they turned to cannibalism to survive...

"Because of this they are now classed as " unfit for human consumption " and have been sentenced to death.

"Please sign this petition if you feel that this decision is unjust and that you think these pigs deserve the right to live out their lives in a sanctuary..they are the victims and surely deserve our care and compassion."

The petition can be found here.