[Ladyrose56]

I shall be having some chickens after Christmas for the first time but i am unsure what kind to have has anybody got some advice on what is the best kind to have and what are the best layers 

[joyfull]

If you want lots of eggs then a hybrid would suit you best, however they will slow down after a couple of years. Pure breeds will lay less eggs a week but will lay for a longer period (totalling the same amount of eggs overall). Perhaps you could pay a visit to a poultry show to see what pure breeds there are and then decide (I have seen lots that I would like and keep changing what I put on my wish list  )

[Rubellite]

If you want lots of eggs then a hybrid would suit you best, however they will slow down after a couple of years. Pure breeds will lay less eggs a week but will lay for a longer period (totalling the same amount of eggs overall). Perhaps you could pay a visit to a poultry show to see what pure breeds there are and then decide (I have seen lots that I would like and keep changing what I put on my wish list  )

.....or do you just mean extending the wish list, Joy? 

Be warned, LR56, they are extremely addictive

[joyfull]

ask me that after Sunday when I will have seen loads more breeds that I've either never heard of or seen in the flesh 
Taking my note pad just in case 

[LittleRedHen]

I love my Black Rock and my Columbian Black Tail (Calder Ranger).  They both lay like machines, bless them, are hardy and gentle.

[Hennery]

I would agree with that. Our Columbian Black Tail is also very friendly, a good layer and a most attractive bird.

[iowrooster]

Hey! I have three Silkies and a Poland.  The Silkies are sweet and very greedy, on average they each lay one egg every other day( have stopped now for winter break!)the Poland is quite flighty and have found not so easy to bond with, but as everyone says keeping chickens is addictive !