Turkey who dodged death at feast

Lofty will be the guest of honour at the dinner

One of Britain's luckiest turkeys is heading for a Christmas dinner but will not be the main course.

Lofty the turkey was on his way to an abattoir with other birds in the back of a lorry when he managed to jump off.

He ended up at an animal sanctuary in Swanley, Kent, and will be at a Christmas dinner given by vegans.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), which is against factory-farmed turkeys, said he would be the guest of honour at the table.

Retreat Animal Rescue spokeswoman Anita Sing said: "Christmas should be a time of compassion for animals, including turkeys."

Wednesday's festive dinner, served by PETA and the staff at the animal rescue centre, will have soya-based products with all the trimmings.