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Flock of pigeon races taking place over the summer

Pigeon racing has returned to the island over the past couple of weekends with hundreds of pigeons setting flight from L’Ancresse determined to be the first one back to the UK.

The island had become a popular release spot for UK enthusiasts since Brexit, but the sport was grounded last April after aviation safety concerns.
The island had become a popular release spot for UK enthusiasts since Brexit, but the sport was grounded last April after aviation safety concerns. / Picture by Chris George

Rene Archer, site agent for the Royal Pigeon Racing Association, said there were 19 events planned for this summer.

The island had become a popular release spot for UK enthusiasts since Brexit, but the sport was grounded last April after aviation safety concerns.

Guernsey Ports and the Royal Pigeon Racing Association agreed a new set of safety procedures at the beginning of July to allow the sport to restart.

The new safety measures include enhanced planning and the introduction of a new permit scheme coordinated by the RPRA.

‘Thankfully all those problems appear to be in the past,’ said Mr Archer. ‘The drivers just need to contact the airport and get clearance.’

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