25,000 Pigeon Fanciers Flock to the Royal Pigeon Racing Association's 47th Show!
9 January 2019
by Visit Blackpool
On Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th January 2019, the Royal Pigeon Racing Association (RPRA) will celebrate the 47th British Homing World Show of the Year at The Winter Gardens in Blackpool.
25,000 pigeon fanciers from across the UK will flock to the venue including veteran flyers and junior members.
The British Homing World Show of the Year is the largest of its kind in Europe. Over the two-day event, there will be over 100 trade stands, charity pigeon auctions, raffles for new lofts and the showing and judging of over 2,000 of the top homing pigeons in the country.
The BBC’s National Security Correspondent Gordon Corera will also be signing his book the ‘Secret Pigeon Service’ at the event. The book is based on an amazing story about the 16,000 homing pigeons which were dropped in an arc from Bordeaux to Copenhagen as part of 'Columba' - a secret British operation to bring back intelligence from those living under Nazi occupation.
The RPRA is encouraging anyone who would like to find out more about the sport to attend the event. Tickets are available on the day and also online on the RPRA’s website, priced at £7. The show itself generates £5.6 million for the local economy and has contributed nearly £3 million for various charities through the profits made.
Ian Evans, CEO of the RPRA comments: “Pigeon racing is not simply just a hobby for the fancying community. For many, the past time helps people to stay active and social. The population of pigeon fanciers is made up of those from all different backgrounds and the event is a great chance for our members to catch up.
It will also be a great opportunity for us to launch our junior membership scheme to encourage the younger generation to keep our pastime thriving.”