TWO guinea pigs which were abandoned in a carpark in freezing conditions have found a new home just in time for Christmas.

The female pigs were found in a carrier bag beside a car in Bishop Auckland Retail Park last week and taken into the Pets at Home branch on site.

Staff took them in and had them checked over by a vet before entering them into their adoption scheme.

And just six days later, Kirsty Brien, visited the store to buy a hamster for her daughter Esme and fell in love with the duo.

Esme, eight and her brother Seth, three, were also "smitten" with the pigs and decided to adopt them.

Now named Everest and Mermaid, the pigs are enjoying life in their new home in Cockfield, along with Border Collie, Rowan.

Mrs Brien said: "I understand there's a range of circumstances that would cause people to dump a pet but it seems so sad because they are so friendly."

Esme added: "They are lovely to cuddle and make really cute noises."

Sharon Allan, store manager at Pets at Home Bishop Auckland, said: "I'm very pleased to say that both guinea pigs have now found a loving home with one of our regular customers - and all in time for Christmas."