FORMER commercial hens have been given new homes thanks to a new animal rescue service in Harwich.

A rehoming event, hosted by charity Chicken Rescue Harwich, saw residents pick up more than 90 hens on Saturday.

Several breeds of hens were given away including colour variations of red, ginger and multi-colour.

A spokesman for Chicken Rescue Harwich said: “Thank you to everyone who has helped give the hens a new life.

“Our ladies are settling in well and enjoying their coop, rooting around in the bedding, finding places to perch.

Harwich and Manningtree Standard: On The Move - The hens were transported to their new owners in this trailer.On The Move - The hens were transported to their new owners in this trailer. (Image: Chicken Rescue Harwich)

“Several eggs were handed out.

"It may be a day or two without eggs as any eggs will already have been developing before they had their adventure.”

Chicken Rescue Harwich is run by Joe and Jon Nutkins who have chicken enclosures with a mix of Rhode Island, Light Sussex, Bluebells, Leghorn and Maran hens.

The charity saves ex-commercial hens as typically 72-week-old hens are sent to slaughter to be used in a range of products including human and pet foods, despite a potential to live from five to ten years.

For more information on the charity and to support visit bit.ly/3EafZ8N.