AN animal rights group is calling on Worcestershire County Council to approve a memorial in tribute to turkeys that died in a crash on the M5 near Bromsgrove.

The accident saw a trailer carrying 640 turkeys overturn near junction five of the motorway to the A38 Wychbold just after 10am on Thursday, December 7.

People for the Ethical Treatments of Animals (PETA) has since 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 the 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."

A county council spokesman said PETA's request 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."

The incident caused outrage from local vegans, who rallied at the scene after hearing about the crash on social media.

Witnesses claimed the birds were 'manhandled' as they were 'chucked into crates', but West Mercia Police confirmed the force was not involved in any investigation into the incident.

A spokesman for RSPCA , which attended the scene, said the situation 'wasn't ideal' but professionals at the scene 'did what they could'.

They added: "We would welcome any calls with concerns."

One turkey which evaded capture, now named Asha, meaning 'hope', is recovering at Hillfields Animal Sanctuary in Blackwell.