Jumpers needed for former battery hens at sanctuary

Former battery hens are being kitted out in woolly jumpers by a rescue centre to stop them shivering in the cold.

Now knitters are being urged to help to keep the hens, as well as a few goats, warm by staff at Green Meadow Animal Sanctuary at Quarry Farm, in Pattingham, near Shifnal.

Fundraiser Lucy Hayreh said today that the sanctuary was expecting another 14 ex-battery chickens to arrive on December 29, to add to its current brood of 10.

"Because of how battery hens are kept, they have very few feathers so they feel the cold when they come out," she said.

"Their muscles have also often wasted away so they can't even move around to keep warm."

Lucy said jumpers were also being sought for the goats.

"Everyone thinks they are quite hardy, outdoor creatures, but when we have cold winter nights they're shivering away," she added.

"We know that there are loads of talented knitters out there and it would be great if we could get them to get knitting.

"It costs between £40 and £50 for a proper goat coat," she added.

The sanctuary was saved from closure earlier this month after the public donated £15,000.

For more information, including measurements and knitting patterns, visit www.greenmeadow.org.uk