A DESPERATE plea for hens to be rehomed is being put forward to help chickens being saved from slaughter.

The British Hen Welfare Trust is appealing to member of the public who can find a home for ex-commercial hens.

READ THIS: Blackmoor Stream in Ascot has had fly-tippers dump rubbish for a second time

Nearly 300 hens are facing slaughter unless homes can be found for them in Crowthorne by January 26.

The event hopes to see 280 "hardworking" hens find a new home to be kept as much-loved pets in people's gardens.

Kate Vose, Berkshire co-ordinator for the charity, said: "“We know it’s a bit chilly outside which is why we want to find cosy coops for our ex-bats as soon as possible. They’ll be missing a few feathers and looking a bit tatty, but in no time they’ll be looking like glossy showbirds again.

Molly Cristo the hen (pictured above) looked damaged with raw skin showing and a lack of feathers and she has now filled out since seeing daylight.

ALSO READ: Aldi confirmed to replace Waitrose in Sandhurst

“These hens make the most wonderful pets and rehoming is a fabulous way to get the feelgood factor which comes from knowing you’ve saved lives. We think these hens deserve a second chance, so please get in touch if you can offer some a loving home.”

So far, the British Hen Welfare Trust has found homes for more than 750,000 hens.

The hens are around 18 months old and the charity collects them from caged farms where they are bred for meat consumption or to lay eggs for supermarkets.

Visit: support.bhwt.org.uk/RegisterAHen.aspx for more information.