THIS Christmas, spare a thought for the poor turkey? And I don't mean just because he's dead, he probably suffered terribly during his short life.

About 10 million turkeys are reared every year in the UK just for the Christmas period. The majority of these are factory farmed in large windowless buildings with up to 25,000 birds crammed into each shed. They stand on a floor, typically covered with wood shavings, which become extremely wet and dirty. Many suffer from ulcerated feet and lameness. Nearly one tenth of these birds will die in this shed - starving because they are not strong enough to fight to get the food and water.

If you want to eat turkey make sure you buy one marked "free range" or "organic". If your supermarket won't stock them ask your local butcher. Birds reared under these schemes enjoy fresh air and freedom and don't suffer anywhere near as much as factory farmed birds.

If anyone wants to learn more about the truth behind the way turkeys are reared, I would encourage them to call Compassion in World Farming on 01730 268 863 and ask for their turkey leaflet - it certainly opened my eyes.

DAVID JOHN, Britten Drive, Poolbrook, Malvern.