An animal sanctuary reopens for the season today and its team is "proud" to introduce its new rescues to visitors.

Since closing for the winter, the Hillside Animal Sanctuary has welcomed a variety of new animals including pigs, goats, donkeys and shire horses. 

At the end of 2023, Hillside offered safety and refuge to seven pigs and 13 goats who had been seized by Trading Standards.

Eastern Daily Press: The sanctuary has welcomed a range of new animals this winterThe sanctuary has welcomed a range of new animals this winter (Image: Hillside Animal Sanctuary)

Eastern Daily Press: Some of the newest rescues were pregnant and have given birth since arriving Some of the newest rescues were pregnant and have given birth since arriving (Image: Hillside Animal Sanctuary)

Some were pregnant at the time and have since given birth, multiplying the herd of pigs to 29 and the number of new goats to 24.

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Eight new donkeys and several shire horses have also joined the Hillside clan.

Eastern Daily Press: Entry to the sanctuary is freeEntry to the sanctuary is free (Image: Hillside Animal Sanctuary)

Eastern Daily Press: Guests can donate a hay bale for £5 to help feed the animalsGuests can donate a hay bale for £5 to help feed the animals (Image: Hillside Animal Sanctuary)

Wendy Valentine, Hillside Animal Sanctuary's founder, said: "We’re excited to welcome visitors back to Hillside Animal Sanctuary where each new season brings new stories of hope and healing.

"As ever, we’re proud to share the journey of these incredible animals with our supporters."

As well as visiting the animals, visitors to Hillside can browse the bric-a-brac shop, gift shop, vegan cafe, children's play area, picnic areas and museum.

The sanctuary is free to enter but donations are encouraged and guests can gift a bale of hay for just £5 to help feed the animals.