Spring has sprung at Reddish Vale Farm as staff welcome in their newest arrivals.

Sow Peppa pig gave birth to 11 Welsh cross with Oxford Sandy Black piglets a few weeks ago.

Farmer Simon Dillon said: "It’s good for the children to see new life.

"It’s a fantastic way of learning about their environment and, most of all, it’s fun."

The piglets were joined this week by a pair of fluffy haired lambs called John and Edward. The X Factor namesakes are settling in well with owls Hedwig and Hermione, and cows Lil and Sparkle, who were born on bonfire night.

Cider the donkey is due to give birth in May and, as if to prove spring is in the air, four baby chicks were hatched this week. The chicks took 21 days to hatch and their mum’s name is Aggie.

However, they need names – and Simon wants our readers to help.

The competition is open to children up to the age of 12. The winning youngster will win a visit to Reddish Vale Farm to see the newly-hatched chicks.

Send your ideas on a postcard, including your name, age, address and telephone number, to Chick Competition, Stockport Express, 1 Scott Place, Manchester, M3 3RN.