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30th May 2006 10:20:43 AM

What a star ... Pam Ahern with Daisy, one of three pigs who starred in the film Charlotte’s Web, and who now enjoy life on her animal farm at Willowmavin.

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THREE little piggies are resting quietly at an animal sanctuary near Kilmore after working hard on a film set to bring home the bacon.

Daisy, Alice and Lily starred in the movie Charlotte’s Web and are now helping their owner Pam Ahern to spread the word about farm animal welfare.

Ms Ahern began Edgar’s Mission three years ago in Willowmavin, with help from her mother, Sylvia, and partner Warren Coyle. “This is different from a normal animal sanctuary,” she said.

“We want to inform people about how their lifestyle and dietary choices are making an impact on animals.”

The mission is home to a variety of rescued farm animals, including 18 lambs, two goats, some chickens and Tony Blair – the turkey.

Ms Ahern’s eight pigs, including the three A-listers, hold a place particularly close to her heart.

“Most people underestimate the intelligence of pigs,” she said.

“They, along with all farm animals, have the right to live out their lives peacefully.

“They are no different to the pet cat or dog.”

Edgar’s Mission will soon open to the public, thanks to a $10,000 grant from the animal welfare group Voiceless.

Ms Ahern said Alice – who mostly potters around the farm – was “paid” $5000 by the film makers for her role as Wilbur the pig’s mother in Charlotte’s Web.

“That’s how much it would cost us to care for her for a year,” Ms Ahern said.

The rest of the money will help to fund the mission’s kindness trail, a walk on which visitors may enjoy a glimpse into the animals’ lives.

“Each animal has a photograph and story about how they came to be at the farm,” Ms Ahern said.

“I don’t know if you would call the pigs movie stars, but they’re all certainly individuals.”

Telephone Pam on 5781 1216 for more information on Edgar’s Mission. Entry is free.

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