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

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

The flock were found alive and have been placed with a rescue charity until a permanent home is found.

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

An SDC 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."