Urgent appeal to home 187 ex-commercial hens

An urgent appeal has been launched by a charity to find homes for 187 ex-commercial laying hens at risk of being sent for slaughter.

The British Hen Welfare Trust (BHWT) is holding a rehoming event in Guildford, Surrey, on Sunday, but those interesting in adopting must register by 14:00 BST on Friday.

"These hens have spent their lives working tirelessly laying eggs for us to buy in the supermarket, but now they have reached 18 months old, they are at the end of their commercial life," the trust said.

"However, the BHWT knows they have so much more to give, which is why they deserve a second chance at a free-range retirement."

Andy Hill, senior marketing and communications officer at the trust, said that people were often surprised by "how much joy hens bring".

"They're funny, curious little characters. They love routine, and they're genuinely a delight to care for," he added.

"Plus, they're still more than happy to pop out the occasional egg."

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