The British Hen Welfare Trust is appealing to the West Midlands public to come forward and offer up their back gardens to a small flock of ex-commercial hens so that they can enjoy Christmas as part of a loving family, rather than the alternative.

There are 400 hens, some of which are blue egg layers, who are hoping to avoid the slaughter lorry and they’ll be re-homed in Allesley on Saturday, 23rd December. So far 110 lucky girls have homes to go to, but the remaining 290 are hoping their turn will come before the deadline.

Though it may be wet and miserable outside, these hens would love nothing more than to experience crisp fresh air and dewy grass under their feet for the first time, so don’t let the weather put you off re-homing. Of course they’d also appreciate a few presents under the tree in the form of some chicken treats, and will undoubtedly return the gift in form of a delicious egg, or two.

These hens are 18 months old and are being sent to slaughter because their egg laying may have slowed down or become somewhat irregular. However these friendly little hens will often carry on popping out eggs for you to enjoy for breakfast, or perhaps for a glass of eggnog on Christmas morning.

Ian Farrar, West Midlands Co-ordinator, said: “Christmas is a feel-good time of year, and nothing is more rewarding than knowing you’ve saved lives by re-homing these hens. They’re the most wonderful pets, and I’d urge anyone considering adopting some to simply do it and make more Christmas wishes come true!”