Ashwood Park Primary School in Wordsley had a temporary addition to the school roll when they found a young game cockerel in the school grounds early one morning. 

Fearful that it would not be able to fend for itself, they contacted a long time friend and voluntary helper at the school, Cllr David Vickers, who agreed to take it to join his own chickens until he could find a suitable home for it.

Chris Kelly MP for Dudley South visited the school on Friday afternoon and enjoyed showing the cockerel to the Reception class and went to lengths to explain to the children his knowledge of chickens.

Mr Kelly said: “The children were very interested in the cockerel. I don’t know how it came to be at the school but, thanks to Cllr Vickers, it is now in safe hands.”

Later on Friday afternoon the cockerel was taken to a specialist breeder who identified it as a young Red Black Game Cockerel. It has now joined his extensive flock of similar birds.

The Head Teacher of Ashwood Park Primary School, which is currently celebrating coming out of special measures in only thirteen months, said: "Everybody is welcome at Ashwood - even wildlife!"

Chris Kelly MP added: “Like the cockerel, mine was a flying visit to the school. However, thanks to the Head Teacher inviting me I will be back in September for a full tour and visit of the school that has done so well to come out of special measures."

www.ashwood.dudley.gov.uk

16th July 2010