EIGHT adorable guinea pigs left abandoned on a doorstep will face a happier future after kindhearted readers opened their hearts - and their homes - to the unwanted pets.

Volunteers at the RSPCA Worcester and Mid-Worcester branch have been inundated with calls from people wishing to offer a forever home to the animals.

Margaret Layland, small animals rehoming co-ordinator, said she had 28 calls for the guinea pigs, as well as calls about a pair of rabbits and two rats.

Generous people have also given donations to the charity, which is separate from the national charity, and food for the abandoned pets currently with foster carers.

Mrs Layland, from St Johns, Worcester, said: "The response has been absolutely smashing and we can't thank everyone enough.

"We have been so pleased and would like to thank everyone who got in touch to offer a home and let them know that if they haven't heard back from me, they soon will.

"From people offering homes for the pets to the phone calls just to say keep up the good work, I tell all of our volunteers it is a great thing to focus on rather than the sad reasons why the animals end up in our care.

"Everyone has been so considerate, the response has been overwhelming."

The eight guinea pigs were brought to Mrs Layland after they were dumped on the drive of a home in Alvechurch, near Redditch, on Thursday, January 2.

They will be given to new homes in pairs and on a first-come, first-served basis.

But pressure on the branch, which has been inundated with calls about abandoned animals over the winter months, does not look like it will ease any time soon.

Two of the guinea pigs are thought to be pregnant and will not be allowed to go to new homes until at least three months' time.

Volunteers will then be responsible for finding new homes for the baby guinea pigs.

Anyone who could rehome an animal, needs advice or would like to donate money or food should call Margaret Layland on 01905 421849.

To donate to the charity visit uk.virginmoneygivin.com/charities/rspca-worcester.