(Matt Aldous via SWNS)
By Katie Pearson and Henry Durand
A gang of boisterous pigs which keep escaping from a farm are causing havoc on residential streets.
The animals escaping from fields alongside the 26-mile footpath belonging to D W Filby & Son farm, which operates in Aldborough, Aylsham, Norfolk.
Kevin Filby, spokesman for the farm, said the main issue is that fences are being damaged by people walking on his fields.
So much so, seeing the pigs and their piglets has become a "daily" occurrence for residents.
The Florence the Aylsham Pig group on Facebook - with the name given to any pig seen roaming around the town - now has more than 500 members and features regular posts about their escapades.
Annabelle Fisher, the group’s admin, said "they’ve become part of the town.
But not everyone is happy about the pigs pottering around - and occasionally, on the rampage.
A gang of boisterous pigs that roam freely have become 'local celebs' in their town - but their antics have divided residents. (Matt Aldous via SWNS)
One member of the public said a swine charged at them, while the police have been forced to escort a hog back to the farm on at least one occasion.
Charlotte Fonseca, who frequently encounters pigs on the path, said: "It could be dangerous if they got onto the main road and it stops parts of the way being used.
"It would be helpful if the farmer had signs up advising on who to call when we see a loose pig, as there is no way to contact them and even when they are made aware the pigs seem to remain out for days."
Another local, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "There is serious concern within the community about public safety, particularly for dog walkers, children, and horse riders who have stopped using the area because of the risk.
She added the path is now often home to "unbearable smell, excessive noise, large numbers of flies and mud and slurry."
Yet according to Kevin Filby, the farmer in charge of the animals, the escapee pigs are "all in good fun."
The group of pigs and piglets belongs to DW Filby and Sons, a farm located Aylsham, Norkfolk. (Matt Aldous via SWNS)
“Every now and again, one pig might get out, but our staff and the police keep an eye on them,” he said.
“It’s all in good fun and safe for the public. People enjoy seeing the pigs - it’s a positive thing for the community. It brings smiles, and it’s harmless.”
He added: “The pigs aren’t a threat. They’re just curious and exploring, which is what pigs do.
“People exaggerate because it’s unusual, but it’s not dangerous. If people see a pig walking around, the best thing to do is contact us. Our staff will ensure the animal is safe.”
As for the cause of the escapes, Filby pointed to a regular tampering of his fences.
He claims a police investigation has been carried out into one incident of damage but adds that ignorance of the countryside code by walkers, who neglect to properly secure gates, has also been at play.
Sadly for fans of the roving animals, they are due to be relocated next week, although Mr Filby refused to confirm their destination.
Aylsham Town Council has declined to comment on the matter.