Crooks steal hens from group planning to give eggs to needy families in Milton Keynes

Branch-out MK, a Community Interest Company based in Stony Stratford, gives horticultural work experience to young adults with autism and learning difficulties.

They posted photos of how the crooks had cut through the chicken coop wire to grab the hens.

A spokesman said: "Last night some unmentionables broke into our chicken coop and stole three of our beautiful girls. As if things aren’t difficult enough...

He added: "Once they had settled back into their laying routine we were going to distribute those eggs to local folk that really need them. This crisis is really bringing out the best but also the worst in people. I am absolutely gutted"

Branch-out, which is based at York House, also grows seasonal and speciality flowers and sells them from its workshop, markets and local stores.

We grow a wide variety of seasonal, speciality, cut flowers. We sell our flowers from our workshop, at Farmers Markets & through local independent shops.