YORK'S most famous porkers have shaken off their mucky image and had a makeover.

The pigs who have made their home in the city's Swinegate Quarter for the last 12 years have been restored to their former glory by their creator, York sculptor Jonathan Newdick.

Gone are the make-up and chewing gum plastered onto them by thoughtless passers-by. Now the pigs, which brighten up the outside of The Tasting Rooms and The Slug and Lettuce, are the smartest swine in town. Sculptor Mr Newdick, who is a tutor at York College, was commissioned to create the pigs in 1992 by General Accident, who then owned Swinegate. "I am delighted to revisit and restore my pig sculptures," he said.

"They have survived the rigours of city life very well, being made of bronze. Now they are smiling again."

Mr Newdick, who lives in Fulford, also created the famous black cats which adorn the buildings of York architect Tom Adams.

Mr Newdick said: "Swinegate is now one of the most attractive and prestigious areas of York and its popularity is growing fast. My renovated pigs reflect this renaissance."

The designs are now recorded in the archives of the Royal British Society of Sculptors in London, of which Mr Newdick is a member. Alison Stewart, the property director of developers Oakgate Group plc, who own Swinegate, said: "Together with the specially commissioned pig bricks, dotted about the elevations, the pig sculptures add a touch of intrigue and curiosity to the Swinegate Quarter".

Updated: 10:05 Friday, May 21, 2004