These cute piglets were bred especially to do the gardening at a National Trust property – and have proved a surprise hit among visitors.

The kune kune swine turn over the soil in the recently re-opened kitchen garden of Kingston Lacy House, near Wimborne.

They are the smallest domesticated breed in the world and the hairy animals originally come from New Zealand.

Staff were delighted when a litter of 10 was born and so were visitors who loved seeing them in the garden.

The porkers are particularly entertaining because they “talk” to each other in high-pitched grunts.

The parents are always “speaking” with the piglets, some of which are currently up for sale at £50 each.

Jan Etchingham, from Kingston Lacy, said: “We had several pigs including two kune kune and brought in a boar.

“We then had 10 piglets and they proved a real hit with visitors – and they actually do a job.

“They turn the soil over as would have happened traditionally and leave it in good shape.

“They are very entertaining and are quite vocal and sort of speak to each other in high pitched grunts.

“Because we had so many some are for sale at £50 each, which is a good price considering they are pedigree.”