Pigeon fanciers flock to resort

More than 30,000 pigeon fanciers are expected in the resort

Pigeon fanciers from all over the country are flocking to Blackpool for the resort's largest annual gathering.

About 30,000 visitors are expected to attend the British Homing World Show of the Year, at the Winter Gardens.

Known as the "Crufts of the pigeon world", it is one of the largest events of its kind in Europe.

The Winter Gardens is welcoming the extra visitors after bosses found out this week the venue would not host the Labour Party conference in 2006.

Show Secretary Peter Bryant said: "This will be the 33rd Show of the Year and they just get better and better.

"It is a real beano for fanciers from all over Britain, the continent and the USA who come to renew acquaintances."

The show is organised by the Royal Pigeon Racing Association (RPRA).

One of the main events is the Gala Evening at the Tower Ballroom on Saturday night, which includes the RPRA's annual presentations for the best performances by pigeons over the 2004 season.