peter pandy

30.40.50 years ago Federations were sending 6,000 birds to the first race and were lucky to get 1500 at the last. 4,500 went missing almost every year, putting it into perspective we are losing no more now than we did then. I have stated on more than one occasion that 2/3rd of your racers is the rule for losses.

They are Ernie Harbourn's "past editor BHW" pension fund.

What gardeners use in greenhouses are tins of Sulphur which when lit will kill all in an enclosed space including YOU. NOT to be recommended as the smell will linger for days affecting your lungs. I speak from experience.

B & Q have for sale at about £10 ultra violet fly and moth killers and they are deadly. Killed more than 100 this week alone but requires electricity. Have used them for years.

All very interesting however no one has mentioned feeding and the lack of protein in the majority of feeds. I remember years ago when everyone fed mainly bean mixtures and the continental feeds came on the market which had little protein and after a 4 hour fly the birds returned like darts.

15 from 17 training from Selby with Almond Valley.

Any news for Almond Valley ?.

Gee Whiz, It is anti bacterial and fungi. In other words if the birds pick something up in the basket it wont be passed on.

Been using it for over 50 years on the birds return. In the drinker you only require to turn the water PINK which equals a couple of grains. In the bath a small pinch is all that is required to turn it red. If personally you have a problem with smelly feet steep them in purple water and it is a guaranteed cure.

Sorry I have to disagree as I had 3 on the day from 15 and finished up with 14 next day. I believe my late comers were just not good enough on the day and don't blame the controller in any way.

Interesting point Del. I have raced something similar, as 2011 y/b they went with Midland to 160 mls, As 2012 yearlings they went with Midland out to 230 mls, as 2 y/o I switched and went East with F&C and have reasonable returns and good times with them with acceptable losses compared with the West route. Because of massive losses on the West route midland have cancelled the Worcester race probably to the advantage of the SNFC and given us an Appleby instead. 120 ml jump my birds could have done without.

See post 26 Del ! Specsavers for you comes to mind !!!

NAW but mabye's AYE

Its not my intention to create controversy however in Denny club which sent approx 150 birds only 12 were clocked on the day. At 11.00 to-day the following returns were noted. 0-4, 0-20, 1-15, 2-30, 4-24, 6-20, 5-15, 11-34, etc, If you believe the route has no bearing then you are entitled to your opinion as I have mine and I have no doubt in my mind with over 50 years experience that the West route is definately the problem especially now we dont have Lanarkshire to take the brunt of liberating before us.

I am of the opinion that small convoys return lower than average velocities and Midland Federation not only come into that category but travel the West coast route itself due to the self interest of the Airdrie club which only looks after its members to the detriment of the birds which has been proven in the past A.G.M.s.

Alex the weather forecast for to-morrow is rain and more rain. I have the feeling we wont see many again.

It would appear the fed has had massive losses from Appleton to-day liberated 14.30 into a N/E wind with most fanciers flying 180-190 miles. Timing from approx 19.30 it was total mist cover for the birds to negotiate with visibility less than 1 mile and dark at 21.00. Returns locally are 3-15, 2-24, 1-20 up to 21.30. Perhaps going the West coast route ourselves will prove to be a folly we could do without.

They dont call rape rape without good reason !!!!.

Midland Fed has put back basketing till to-morrow due to weather report of inclement weather. To-days weather forecast was for showers here in Falkirk result not a cloud in the sky and sweltering !!.

Thoughts of a very good friend who will be sorely missed. An HONEST man now lies at rest, As e'er God with his image blest; The friend of man, the friend of truth, The friend of age, and guide of youth; Few hearts like his, with virtue warm'd, Few heads with knowledge so informed; If there is another world, he lives in bliss; If there is none, he made the best of this. Peter & Wilson Mackintosh.

Cheers Andy, made contact.

Anybody able to inform me Secretary's contact No for South Moor club ?.

Every time I basketed birds and put them in the boot of the car they threw up. It took a long time before the penny sank and I bought an estate car. No covered boot problem solved.

P.M. sent

Aye John may be the best ever President of Lanarkshire but he will never make a weather forecaster as yesterdays post proves !!! Just glad I did not take his advice regarding putting all your eggs in one basket as I sent all my yearlings and late breds and dropped 1 from 23.