TWO French bulldog puppies who which were found abandoned in a cardboard box in Pontypool Park appeared on TV last night.

Yoda and Mogwai were rescued by the RSPCA in November, after they pair were found underweight and with extensive skin problems.

But following rehabilitation at the Newport Animal Centre, and rehoming, the puppies starred in the first episode of The Dog Rescuers, which aired at 8pm on Channel 5.

RSPCA inspector Simon Evans said: “They’re such beautifully ugly dogs – which is why the unusual names Yoda and Mogwai were chosen.

“Their U-turn in RSPCA care was truly remarkable, and it’s fantastic that their story is to play such a central role in the new series of the The Dog Rescuers.”

Richard Lloyd-Roberts, from Staffordshire, said: “Mogwai is doing brilliantly. He’s made amazing progress in integrating into our family home – and after 48 hours it felt like he owned the place.”

Doreen Bunch, Yoda’s new owner, from Somerset, added: “Yoda is absolutely fabulous. He’s a joy to have, and the whole family absolutely love him.”

“We feel so blessed to have Yoda in our lives. It was love at first sight, and we’re thrilled to have re-homed him from the RSPCA.”