THE British Hen Welfare Trust is to open a new re-homing site outside Boncath.

The charity, which finds pet homes for ex-commercial laying hens otherwise destined for slaughter, will host its first collection at the new location on Sunday, November 12 and is urging all hen lovers in the area to get involved.

Gaynor Davies, head of operations at the BHWT, said: “We are very excited about our new re-homing point in Pembrokeshire. Hens make wonderful pets and we have several hundred hens, currently sitting in barns, hoping that members of the public will be able to take them to their new forever home next weekend.”

These particular hens are beautiful little Hubbards, a traditional breed that was originally kept to supply both eggs and meat.

Gaynor said: “These hens are slightly smaller, with short legs and slightly splayed toes, but they sport pretty blonde feathers to make sure we fall for their charm.

“They will still lay eggs, live to a good age and, like their caged layer counterparts, have never seen the big wide world that awaits them outside. The girls would simply love the chance to enjoy the finer things in life - at home, with you.”

The charity’s new team of re-homing volunteers, based at Clynfyw Care Farm, Abercych, are all eagerly anticipating the arrival of their first hens and can’t wait to help them towards their permanent homes.

Jim Bowen, re-homing co-ordinator and manager at Clynfyw, said: “At Clynfyw we support people with learning disabilities and physical impairments, using nature as a therapeutic tool, so giving chickens a second chance fits our remit perfectly.

“Our re-homing team is a mixture of our visitors and residents at the care farm. We have rescued hens for many years, currently keeping 40 ex-bats, and our residents look after them on a daily basis.”

The charity’s first re-homing day at the new location will take place on Sunday, November 12 and there are still hundreds of hens looking for happy homes. If you are able to help simply register your details at www.bhwt.org.uk and then call 01884 860084.

Hens need to be reserved in advance and, whilst the feel good factor of saving these hens from slaughter comes free of charge, the charity asks for a donation on the day to help cover its costs.

If you aren’t in a position to re-home but would still like to support the charity contact fundraise@bhwt.co.uk or visit www.bhwt.org.uk to find out more ways to get involved.