This chicken was one of 12 RSPCA officers found kept in unsuitable conditions in a flat on the Collingwood Estate.

They were discovered during a visit by Tower Hamlets Homes staff, who noticed the pets living in the lounge and on the balcony, breaching the tenant’s housing agreement.

Their removal was part of a day of action by the police’s Partnership Task Force on the Bethnal Green estate, which also found a knife and a screwdriver during a sweep of the estate and a number of small plastic bags containing drugs in a lock up.

Officers also visited the homes of people known to be involved in anti-social behaviour, issuing warnings to tenants.

Youth workers offered guidance on work and social opportunities to steer youngsters away from a life of crime. The day was organised with a range of organisations to tackle anti-social behaviour on the estate.

Youth workers, housing officers and trading standards officers were among those visiting properties on Thursday, September 11, to help reduce crime and disorder.

The intervention was deemed a success, and Tower Hamlets Police intend to carry out further days of action across the borough in the next few months.