Allotments has a new pecking order

Twenty hens have been given the chance of a new life on allotments in Newark.

They have come from the British Hen Welfare Trust, which is always looking for new homes for hens that are no longer wanted once they are 18 months-old and past their egg-laying peak.

Mrs Gillie Wilkinson, from Eton Avenue Growers Association, said many of the hens rehomed at the Eton Avenue allotments had few feathers, but that would change once they settled in.

"They are in for a very happy life here," she said.

"They are already being spoiled rotten."

The charity is holding rehoming sessions across Nottinghamshire, with 400 hens set to be given a new home in Newark on June 9.

It is targeting people who already have pets, as it believes hens make great companions for domestic animals.

Francesca Taffs, marketing officer at the trust, said: "It is a common misconception that hens will not get along with other family pets — that could not be further from the truth.

"In fact, we have known them to become quite attached to cats, dogs and even llamas.

"So long as they know their place in the pecking order, everyone will get along just fine."

Anyone interested in taking in hens should register their details at www.bhwt.org.uk or call 01884 860084 to speak to the charity’s rehoming team.