"Changing the name of Britain's oldest pub would reflect today's rejection of needless violence and help celebrate chickens as the intelligent, sensitive and social animals they are."

People for the Ethical Treatment of Aminals (PETA) director Mimi Bekhechi said today the animal-loving campaign group want to change Ye Olde Fighting Cocks to Ye Olde Clever Cocks to "reflect compassion for animals".

Since it was founded in the eighth century, the pub in Abbey Mill Lane has had many names, but since 1872 the establishment has been known as Ye Olde Fighting Cocks because of its history of cockfighting - a sport that has been illegal in the UK since the 1800s.

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But in a letter sent to the pub this morning, PETA suggest updating its name one more time to Ye Olde Clever Cocks – in recognition of society's growing compassion for animals and in celebration of "intelligent, sensitive chickens".

Ms Bekhechi added: "Today, kind people are appalled by the thought of forcing birds to fight to the death, and more people than ever are making the compassionate choice not to eat chickens, either."

In their letter, PETA note that chickens have unique personalities and sophisticated social behaviour.

They mourn when they lose a loved one, have distinct vocalisations that they use to communicate with each other, and woo one another through elaborate mating dances.

But PETA said chickens raised and killed for food spend their lives inside cramped cages or sheds, and many have their throats slit when they're still conscious and able to feel pain.

The group concluded their letter by saying, "When it comes to chickens, be a lover, not a fighter – go faux, not foe!"

The pub had not replied to the Review at the time of print.

What do you think? Leave comments below or email charlotte.ikonen@london.newsquest.co.uk.