IT WAS a Christmas miracle for a turkey who escaped the dinner plate.
A compassionate family bought Matilda from a Christmas turkey farm, and decided to spare her from a cruel fate.
Instead of being plumped up for the plate, the bird was given a forever home at the Farm Animal Sanctuary in Middle Littleton
She now lives with over 500 rescued farm animals including fellow feathered friend, a bantam cockerel.
Charity founder Janet Taylor said their plucky companion was very friendly and often joined her human foster family in the farmhouse.
And this year the bird will be joined by two more turkeys, who will live out their lives to the full.
To raise money fro Matilda and her friends, the sanctuary will hold a carol service Saturday December 2 at 5pm featuring Evesham Community Choir.
Visit www.thefarmanimalsanctuary.co.uk for more details.