by Christabel Smith

Most turkeys will find themselves in sandwiches or soup this
Boxing Day – but one special bird will be snuggled up on the
sofa.

Family pet Annabel is more likely to be found watching
EastEnders or Corrie than on the end of a fork.

And it's all because of kind-hearted Jean Morrison, who gave the
bird a home 18 months ago after a friend feared she'd get snatched
by a weasel.

Jean, 47, who lives near Cantebury, said: "Annabel has a face
only a mother could love but despite being ugly, she's sweet and
loving, with beautiful eyes.

"Within a day, I'd fallen madly in love with her.

"She's such a character and was soon part of the family. There
was no way I could give her back. My friend didn't mind – she said
I'd spoiled her rotten."

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Like a pet cat or dog, Annabel cuddles up on the sofa to watch TV
and has developed some pretty special talents.

Jean said: "She struts into the kitchen and opens the fridge
with her beak to get to her favourite cheese.

"She loves Stilton best, so I made sure she had some for
Christmas lunch this year. I always cook fresh veg for her too.

"We love snuggling up to watch TV together. Soaps are her
favourite, especially EastEnders and Coronation Street. As soon as
she hears the theme tune, she comes running. When she was younger
she used to sit on my lap, but now she settles in beside me.

"She likes music too. Her favourite tune is Running Bear loved
Little White Dove. When I put it on the stereo, Annabel does a
special backward dance, a bit like the Funky Chicken – or the Funky
Turkey!"

And turkey was definitely off the menu at Jean's house
yesterday.

"'My daughter Liberty and I always enjoyed our roast turkey at
Christmas, but not any more," she said.

"Annabel is like a second baby to me and there's no way I'd
upset her by cooking one of her cousins. We had chicken
instead."

• Story supplied by Christabel Smith from Heart Features