Can you give a home to an ex-battery hen this Christmas?

Hundreds of hens in the King's Lynn area are soon to be given the gift of a second chance in life thanks to national hen welfare charity, the British Hen Welfare Trust.

The lucky hens, who would otherwise be slaughtered at the end of their commercial lives, will be re-homed on Saturday, December 19, to kind-hearted members of the public, and go on to enjoy a festive free-range retirement.

Local co-ordinators for the charity, Andy and Ali Beecroft, said: 'What could be nicer than to embrace the spirit of Christmas by welcoming a few new members into the family fold?

'Ex-bat hens make gorgeous, endearing, funny pets and will usually lay an egg in return for good hospitality. They need a home for keeps though, not just Christmas, so please give adoption serious consideration.'

The hens are simple to keep, have friendly personalities and will soon work their way into their owners' hearts, they added.

The British Hen Welfare Trust re-homes commercial laying hens, educates the public about how they can make a difference to hen welfare and encourages support for the egg industry.

Anyone interesting in offering the 'secondhand' hens a place to call home this Christmas, and beyond, should call the charity on 01884 860084 before 5pm on Friday, December 18 to complete the simple adoption process. They will then be told where to collect the hen/s. The charity cannot allow people to turn up on the day without first registering their interest.

Have you got a festive story about pets? Email david.bale2@archant.co.uk