Defence of the realm diverts cereal feeds from hungry hens and leaves their owners with a dilemma.

Bucolic scenes belie the fact that there's a war on, but rationing hits even the productive gardener. It's all about your attitude at the allotment and one couple see solutions where another only sees problems. Sunflower seeds substitute for banned poultry food, and thrifty tips are shared over the hedge - but it's too late for the chickens facing the chop. Still, some adorable chicks save the day.