DEAR SUPPORTERS

Can dreams come true? You bet they can. And our recent one millionth milestone proved that to me in multiple ways.

In this third and final bumper celebration edition you will read all about Henrietta, adopted by King Charles III and now residing at Highgrove Gardens with 30 friends. We tell the tale of Henrietta’s day, from living on a lovely organic farm with our friends at Daylesford to arrival at a pretty paddock within Highgrove Gardens.

You’ll see lots of lovely snippets from people who have in one way or another touched the charity along its way, including Paul, who used to work at the Charity Commission, and saw our wonderful millionth news in a national paper. Paul texted whilst holidaying in France to say he had helped me set up the BHWT in 2005, and I remember it well. His taking the time and trouble to congratulate us really touched me.

We have had hen parties - everywhere! And the joy seeing the photos of our fabulous supporters and volunteers is fabbydoodledo! You can see just a small handful of our 1,400 strong team celebrating our collective achievement on pages 16 to 21.

There is, again, an amazing competition and chance to win an incredible prize bundle courtesy of Lyme Bay Winery, Quicke's Traditional Ltd and Sophie Allport - head to page 48 for how to enter.

Of course having reached this world-first milestone you won’t be surprised to read we do not intend taking it easy! The drive and sense of purpose within the charity is extraordinary. As an example of this my lovely team at Hen Central made a reel with messages from staff and volunteers around the country for me; aside from the tingling from head to toe and lump in my throat, it was the most uplifting feedback I could have wished for. Across the country (and beyond, in France) we have a team of like-minded people who are with me every step of the way in wanting to improve life for commercial laying hens, wherever they are. And I’m so grateful to them all.

Everything within this issue is, naturally, my dream coming true. And the support of His Majesty so succinctly underpins my belief that these deserving little birds are entirely worthy of the homes and help we afford them through adoption. A huge thank you to King Charles for his support.

I hope you enjoy this edition and will stay with us as we continue surging towards helping more of our beloved hens, together.

With warmest best wishes and thanks