The good news released just in the last few days is that DEFRA Ministers who had been keeping the situation concerning pigeon racing in the UK under review and based on risk assessment have now decided to allow gatherings for racing from Belgium and Northern France.

Clearance locally was given late yesterday afternoon and subject to very strict conditions the Licence for the Blue Riband Kings Cup has been agreed by both Ministries in Ireland.

The Irish National Flying Club race will be flown from Vannes on Thursday 29th June, the Race Code will be issued later and Club Secretaries can apply for distances next week.

The Premier OB National for the NIPA is due to be flown next week and final arrangements will be made over the weekend. Members will be kept informed through the usual channels and Lib Line.

Hopes were high that this race will also be flown from France, Lamballe on Friday 23rd June with birds race marked early on Wednesday.

Willie Reynolds HOMER