Five hens were discovered in a layby on the A38 Moreton Valance this morning by a mobile caterer.

It is suspected they were dumped at some point last night.

The flock that were found alive, have been placed with a hen rescue charity whilst a permanent home is found.

The Animal Welfare Service for Stroud District Council is now checking CCTV of the area for information.

A Stroud District Council spokesperson said: “A mobile caterer alerted our Neighbourhood Warden Katie Markwick, who promptly called in our Animal Welfare Team to deal with the flock.

“This was a very sad and surprising discovery, and thankfully we reached them in time. We have secured them lodgings with a hen rescue charity for now, and they should find them a new home.

"The birds need to be quarantined due to the current bird flu restrictions."