AN animal rights group is calling on Worcestershire County Council to grant approval to a memorial in tribute to turkeys that died in a crash on the M5, near Wychbold.

The accident saw a trailer of 640 turkeys overturn near junction five of the motorway, just after 10am on Thursday last week.

Now, PETA (People for the Ethical Treatments of Animals) has sent a letter to Worcestershire County Council Leader Simon Geraghty asking for approval to erect a tombstone memorial at the scene.

The tribute would feature an image of a turkey next to these words: "In Memory of the Turkeys Who Suffered and Died in a Trailer Accident at This Spot: Try Vegan."

PETA campaigns strategist Luke Steele said: "PETA's roadside memorial can prevent further tragedies, including human ones, by reminding people to drive with care and spare a thought for animals by no longer eating them.

"For nothing more than a Christmas dinner, this crash left animals suffering on an already-terrifying trip to the abattoir."

In the wild, turkeys can live for up to 10 years, but those killed for food are normally slaughtered at between 12 and 26 weeks of age.

A County Council spokesman said it would be "considered" like any other application.

They added: "Road safety is a top priority for us. It's important to us that we keep the roads clear of any extra distractions."