Students are devastated after the chickens they had raised from birth were stolen.

Staff at Lambourne End Centre for Outdoor Learning, opened the animal area on April 12 to find birds “running wild everywhere”.

After checking on all their flock at Manor Road, they found that their frizzle breed of chicken has been stolen.

“We are so upset for our students they have taken every last one,” said Claire Gilmore, fundraising and marketing co-ordinator.

“They raised them from babies, its devastating for them and upsetting to think that someone would steal from a charity.

“They were everyone’s favourite because they looked like they had a perm”.

The batch of eight frizzles, who were taken at some point in the early hours on Thursday, had a street value of £250.

As well as being upset about the discovery, staff are somewhat puzzled about why the breed was targeted.

“I have no idea why the frizzles were taken,” she added.

“They are not a rare breed or anything.”

“They left all the other types of chicken and turkey.”

This is not the first time the centre has been targeted with foul play and a few months ago eight birds were taken after burglars broke into the hatchery.

Staff reinforced locks and purchased CCTV, but both were destroyed by the thieves.

As they are a charity, Claire said it has limited resources to buy more security items.

“We have found some second-hand fences from another charity but we will need manpower to help install them,” she said.

“If volunteers want to help us please get in touch.

“Also if there are any security companies out there that can give us some advice about what to do that would be great.”

You can also help the centre by supporting their open day on Sunday April 22.

Visitors can meet the baby farm animals and try a range of activities including caving, kayaking and pond dipping.

Visitors can also buy fresh farm produce to take home with them, including meat, eggs, vegetables, plants and herbs.

A £3 donation is welcome, and there is a £1.50 charge for some activities.

Call 02085003047