HUNDREDS of hardworking hens may enjoy Christmas out of the cage if enough people come forward to save them from slaughter.

The British Hen Welfare Trust is appealing to residents to come forward and offer up their back gardens to a hen in need so that they too can enjoy a Christmas at home instead of Christmas on a plate.

The 198 hens hoping to avoid the slaughter lorry will be re-homed in Crowthorne on December 17, while 102 others have already found homes to go to.

Kate Vose, British Hen Welfare Trust 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 ex-bats to simply do it and make more Christmas wishes come true!”

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.

To re-home some hens register your details at www.bhwt.org.uk and then call 01884 860084 to speak to the charity’s friendly re-homing team based at Hen Central who will tell you everything you need to know.