NEWLY-HATCHED chicks are entertaining visitors to the Rural Activities Garden Centre, run by Hillingdon Council and volunteers, which will be open seven days a week from Sunday, April 12.

Sussex chickens have been kept at the centre in West Drayton Road, Hillingdon, for several years. The newly hatched chicks are a sign that spring is finally here.

Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the centre being open on Sundays from 9am to 4pm, as this will make it more convenient for them to buy high-quality plants, seeds, fruit and vegetables and gardening equipment.

Currently, it is open Mondays to Saturdays between 9am and 4pm, and is run by council staff, Hillingdon Autistic Care and Support and volunteers.

Once the chicks are fully grown, they will join the other chickens kept on site to lay eggs, which are available to buy. Six eggs cost £1.70.

The centre is a popular community hub, with a cafe run by volunteers, ornamental gardens and greenhouses.

It offers employment and training opportunities to people with learning disabilities.