Roland

Sadly, common sense I believe.

The reason the schools were being urged, by government, scientist and welfare organisations to stay open is for the Kids and the younger generation to get an immunity! Its called 'Herd Immunity' which we should have done regards our pigeons over the last 50 years or so - The older ones, like me etc. won't have the power, in the main, to survive the Virus. So it is merely a need for future generations prevailing. Indeed very many youngsters are no doubt infected and gaining immunity. It is up to the older, more feeble and ill old agers like to take precautions and hope etc. I'm like most are in a lockdown mode. Yes, I will have to go out once in a while... Maybe to get away from the missis whinging about staying in lol. I wonder just how one would, or if, if some have their way, will feel! if they take a dose home and loved ones, neighbours etc. suffer or even die! Could, would one just shrug their shoulders and say 'Ok I was unthinking and selfish ... so what'! Before one tries to jump the fence, shouldn't they check the height!? Mind in all honesty I will say that Most don't take an selfish attitude, just a great disappointment if they can't race their beloved pigeons.

Walter, I have nothing but respect for you. That is an absolute fact—both as to your writings, sense, and the excellent performances you and your birds do. Indeed have done. Of course, WE all wish and hope for another race season. That is also undoubtedly true. A lone voice in the wilderness may still be heard sometimes! There was a time when I saw/ feared I would miss the next Olympic games. A few years back now. I was peeved and wished and hoped it wouldn't so. Fortunately, it wasn't so. I well see, as many of us do, times not too good, THROUGH no fault whatsoever via anyone. Indeed not a club etc. etc. Yet we can't afford to throw caution to the wind. Nor let hopes and dreams overshadow the realism that we are ALL in this together. As such, bound to a feasible way of doing our bit.

Mind Walter, 'Is the Cup half empty, or half full'? Here's another one showing that the main 'Bail Out' is to ensure the wealthy and rich concerns! Not the so-called 9 to 5 as so many are! Quote 'The government faces anger after leaving renters and zero-hour workers out of a £350bn coronavirus crisis package - despite Boris Johnson vowing to support the whole economy. MPs, trade bodies and unions have called for more support sooner than planned, as the UK's death toll reached 71 and Brits are encouraged to remain at home wherever possible - putting many jobs at risk. The measures, revealed yesterday by Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Prime Minister Boris Johnson, include mortgage payment freezes for those in financial difficulty, £330bn in loans and £20bn in other support for businesses. But many critics believe the rescue package has ignored renters, the self-employed and the redundant, as well as those in insecure jobs. End of quote. So the worker will have to pay again eh. Yes! we/they must look after the more affluent... not the every day worker eh! A soothsayer of realism?

Just read it... and as thought. In guidance issued after the chancellor pledged mortgage support for households affected by the coronavirus, UK Finance, the trade body for the major banks, set out how households can apply. There will be a fast-track system for approval, but not everyone will be granted a payment holiday. The unpaid interest will still be recovered later, … Mind folks who don't want/ need a 'Loan' from the government will obviously say 'Quite Right Too'! Maybe so, maybe not, but IT will happen. So who will in reality pick up the TAB? Why it will be passed onto the Shoppers/ buyer / users etc. Many then will say 'Quite Right Too'! So the bill will be passed on to us inevitably! Maybe a soothsayer Walter, or a realist. But fact is, one has to accept … No the Ostrich doesn't bury its head in the sand... It just looks that way. Me! Well I'd be a fool, a rather silly person, NOT to accept and take stock. Ok it may well be It won't help … But ! won't die from 'Lack of Trying lol .. No not a lack of TRYING to die lol

I think you will find a lot more than that Flying Fifer. Indeed it has already killed far more than that 20.000. One should be expecting Millions! Costs will also abound. Many concerns going bankrupt. Government 'Bail outs will have to be paid back with added INTERESTS. Mortgage payments may be suspended for three months due to unforeseen circumstances … Interests ADDED?! Supermarkets can't afford to 'Not Sale' true, maybe cut down hours of trading? But then many have really stocked up well... so won't be buying to replace for a while. Yes critical times hard to deal with ARE here. I have already, and rightly so, had notice of my Hospital attending cancelled. I am at the age of over 70. Had poisoned, and deceased lunges. Likewise the Liver which also has 'Legions'. and much more! That's life I guess. But two things are for sure, indeed a certainty. A I need to take care of myself... Wife etc. I can't, and won't be stupid enough to 'Chane getting and spreading to others. What a horrid and barbarian thought. Selfish!!! Unbelievably so. Shameless! B. School kids will infect many Grand Parents! Fact. They will carry or be carriers. Hence I am nigh in lock down. Yes I have some horrid thoughts' regard the government handling and the spread and why. But then Life and needless costs eradicated will make many richer.

Sorry I posted twice... Being thick I ca n't seem to find out how to cancel lol.

Have been thinking over the past couple or days of so, when the scum would be making money with scams. YES we know/knew the Big concerns etc. will certainly be at it, and the lesser scum too of course. Now we hear and see that Fraudsters are trying to steal money from elderly people by offering to go shopping for them during the coronavirus outbreak, police have warned. Camden Police urged older people to remain vigilant to offers of help after a "small number of reports" that individuals were using the situation to take advantage of those in need. People over the age of 70, those people with pre-existing conditions and women who are pregnant have been urged to self-isolate as much as possible, in a bid to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Why oh why are we not surprised eh! Will be many more to, that's another certainty.

I certainly commiserate with you—no two ways about that. Ricky Mardis used an excellent system in the states, which I followed. Fact, though 90% won't believe it. But then my wife isn't on here so no need to lie, eh! Is done by feeding only, but with no exercise! Once loft fit etc. Mind mine birds as mine were. Reasons for doing such was ill health and lack of zest. Had a job even to raise interest to go to club meetings etc. Went Bed at seven evenings and woke up between 11 and 12 next morning etc. Anyway, this is how it works. Pigeons only allowed out Saturday or race day/ racing! The weekend they are fed Protein, after exercise or a race with a little laxative as Linseed as such. To build up and repair tares etc. Then a regime of Carbs, Fats etc. Remembering that Carbs are only good for 15- 20 minutes. A starter only! The diet means that come basketing, and they are ready to go! The first race I went to on this system was Thurso. Members were not very encouraging, let alone pleased with me! Indeed one or two were saying not so good things. I sent 11,479 miles first time in the basket that year. I dominated two clubs and was second upwards in the federation, having nine in top eleven/ True! Maybe a few will take this on board. Most will not, of course! Which I do understand, and their' way of thinking—being many scenarios there, of course. But the logic and proof abound. In these days, yes one has to change a bit. Not just the rubbish of 'Times Changing' But in essence the troubles our beloved birds endure and face week in week out. I, also believe strongly, that this idea to 'Breed to cover losses' has, and is having a hugely detrimental downward spiralling effect for the well being of the birds and our sport. As many say and believe, but don't do 'If you do the same next year, and the years after, then don't expect the results to be any different'!

Why train any way. Not needed. If a circle is 440 yard- is often a very much longer one - and 4 circles being a mile, they will soon be loft fit and ready to start racing. Saves money and needless journeys! As for directions and so called 'Breaking points' another myth … first fact here is WE DON'T even know how they home for starters. Days gone by pigeon's were selected for which race(s) the fancier wanted to win, or show up. Simply put Very few even trained, yet flew the program and had good results. Never mind so called 'Progress' or 'Times have changed'! Yes they have changed, but certainly not for the better. Not counting the B.O.P. Syndrome.

It took mother Nature many THOUSANDS of years to develop our immune system and some of us arrogant people think that we know better and need to 'correct' the cholesterol level of our immune system. Need one think more. Because it worked. As they have said for thousands of years 'Upset mother Nature' and she will kick you in the teeth.

There Was a time when 'Herd Immunity was the norm. Those not having the constitution and a good immunity build up went westwards. The ones getting through it build up a stronger and natural immunity. Remember that ALL immunity - if any allowed today in these times of money and greed - IS past on to the youngsters and FUTURE generations. As often spouted, 'Why do lofts have say 'YB's' EVERY year! Whilst others don't'! You can wager, as much as you like, that those getting a YB's return EVERY year actually do, and have Paid for a nonsensible cure! Indeed finding a new solution that doesn't work either. J.M.O.

You know, regards this Coronavirus, and the government's logic and directions. Their' way forward is very similar, and indeed bears so much merit when about 'Treatment's' in regards Pigeons and live stock! Fact is, was Knowledge and money wasted because 'So and So' apparently does such and such? Of course! A fortune is paid via fanciers wishing to protect their' loved birds. Fine, one can't put a case against that. Nor would even want to, that's for sure. However, what is the government's guidelines, and their' way forward? What they ARE advocating! 'Herd Immunity'! Let the masses run and catch it. Yes, take sensible and practical precautions! Those of us with health hazards, the older ones and feeble, may well die, regardless of such precautions and medicines. BUT the main thing is the younger ones, those better healthwise with good constitutions, and built up immunities, will build up a further natural immunity … Safeguarding any future outbreaks that may occur! Many of us spouted time upon time. Yes season in and season out! In this regard! To sadly unreasoning and not hearing fanciers. Yet many time renowned people of respected fields have advocated doing as such. As was done till money took a hold. As you know, I, like many more, hardly ever treated a sick pigeon. If 90% were good and still active, then the bird that didn't, or couldn't recover, was lacking. Certainly not one to breed from eh! Likewise, Y/B's. I and many more never suffered from it. Fact! Never mind the trollop saying' WEER they didn't realise they had it … or are liars'! Could it be that 'Herd Immunity' does what nature intended! Could it be that those commercial adverts and those 'Names' paid to promote are indeed falsehoods! The simple fact is we were and was told! Over and over again, actually! History galore showered us with the effects... And yet! The adage of 'Times change' and pigeons are not what they used to be is! Of course not, commence, and money interfered to their detriment

Think a letter, or an advert in the B.H.W. would/could have great results.

Often thought as a great idea. Depending on system I guess. Some - like the Widowerhood flyers, like the dark for rest and etc. Others like the idea that the birds can see and know at all times where they are etc. Migrating birds use the Stars for navigating / homing the same?

Nice post that. With a good element of truth and realism.

North for snow .. well used to be. East still colder and bitter. The birds use a lot of inner heat to combat this. Need more fatty feeds etc. Besides hating an East in Wind, like most birds, beast and man. Well know sayings so truth full is 'When wind has East, it's no good for man or beast'! Very much so for our birds. Training, facing east winds is very detrimental, and takes a longer time to become to racing fit. they don't like it. In a short time past, birds were even let out in a east wind, let alone trained. Raced Lol.

Gosh. Not only do they look a picture, but are proven breeders and racers. Lovely colours too. Often heard tale that the Grizzle is a good distance birds because, normally, of such good feather quality. I wish all every success in buying. Then it is really up to you to get the best from them and winners I guess. Good luck all.

Well, it is busy, as usual, in the garden. I was surprised to see Fledgling Finches this morning. Real early. Climate change I guess, well of course. A robin is flat out, building a nest in a bird box aside from the house. Joyce happy doing the washing just 4-5 feet away in the wash house. They take no notice either when hanging out the laundry. Have the tits active. Am surprised how many Coal Tits are visiting the garden feeder. Finches are regular too. Often have a wrens nesting. Always blue tits etc. When I was a lad, I'd be walking the lakes etc. watch the moorhens building a Reed Platform. Need a close eye to collect their, and Coots eggs along with side the duck eggs. Took one, left ones to ensure nestings. Indeed was a time when any egg was blown into a mug to check. Then if right, into the frying pan for breakfast. Have to admit we ate a great variety (any egg). From the smallest to the goose egg Not allowed now, of course. Mind there is nowhere near as many birds about in reality. Days of hedgerows full of life and great variety are, alas, gone. The thought never entertained eating any B.O.P. egg of course. That could be a real downer, and a 'No Go'. I will, hopefully, be searching out nest this year and enjoy the wonders of colours and marvellous and unusual shapes and the 'how and wherefore' of the incredible egg. No, won't be touching, let alone making a breakfast

Greed and MORE profits. As Britain battles horrific floods amid the climate emergency, a community is pleading for a rethink on plans for a new town on this land, designated a flood risk zone. The Unity Project in South Yorkshire will have 3,100 homes, a school, marina, transport hub, shops, health centre and industrial units built around 200 acres of open space in 25 years. But it is less than two miles from Fishlake in Doncaster, which was overwhelmed by floods when the Don burst its banks in November, causing such misery Boris Johnson was shamed into visiting South Yorkshire to see the damage. That is just another of many. Last Month the government overruled a decision not to be allowed to build 10.000 houses on another flood plain. Cheap land eh!

You know, as many who have been in the ring will verify and agree, one can hold the punches that look the part. Heavy and hurtful … but in fact are not a lot more than a tap to say the least. Seen, and done some great exhibitions that looked, Blood Curling.' I did - not recorded, three so-called fight with a heavyweight - when due to the weather or lousy matchmaking or such. I fought - supposedly three hard rounds with a heavyweight - a good friend and a club mate. Well wore different colours and was introduces as from various clubs of course. I looked a lot smaller, and a darn sight quicker lol. Straight of the crowd was on my side, cheering me on. I threw some significant clusters that looked like they shook him up and hurt him. He'd trap me on the ropes, and it looked like he was belting seven daylights out of me. I even held the ropes when the referee broke us and moved him away. I'd huff and puff, and when the Ref asked if I wanted to carry on, I blew out and shook my head Yes. The crowd rose as one. On one occasion I slid inside and hit a great combination he rock and as in a trance. I gently push, and he collapsed in a heap. The crowd never stop congratulating me, and many told my mate he was a bully and got what he deserved even that he should be ashamed of himself. Yes, and a Bully lol. You know, in all honesty, my six-year-old granddaughter hits harder lol. As Terry Downes once famously stated regards Clay knocking out Listen in the first round 'WERE the punch would have knocked the dummy out of the babies mouth. Who was cheated? No one, they all enjoyed a good old punch up with a some decent skill! One thing for certain, 'Our Fight' was the main talking point' and very often referred too at that. Yes as many would verify, sometimes 'Exhibitions' fill a mediocre program.

Went with a couple of my sons for a dinner … Youngest ones treat turn lol Any way we got talking regards the Fight. Others joined in. Seems the strong consensus is that it was fix and put up job! And I didn't need to say a word like.

Well my …******* Mind eh! Have said before I thought his win against Klitso was contrived for a return … Tyson renegaded, I believe. Now, as thought Wilder has initiated the return bout … But Will Tyson go through with it or renegade again? Tyson Fury’s promoter Frank Warren has raised the prospect of paying Deontay Wilder to step aside and enable a blockbuster heavyweight unification bout with Anthony Joshua this summer. The American suffered a seventh-round stoppage against Fury to drop the WBC heavyweight last Sunday, but he has already signalled his intention to activate a rematch clause that would result in the pair facing off in a trilogy fight by the end of July. Wilder is adamant he has what it takes to beat Fury, despite many believing that he should have lost the drawn first bout on top of Sunday’s rematch, but Warren believes a third encounter is not the right fight for Fury to prepare for next. Money and … No names out their in today's boxing like once were. Hard to draw a crowd for some!!!

The main problem is, I believe, is the immunity is lacking. A second element then takes hold to the detriment of the bird. Immunity and constitutions are wavering too much in oh too many lofts.

You know, I have watched this fight again - 2-3 times. Where was Wilder! Lethargic and slow... only threw the odd hard right hander TOO miss. Left too stomach Lifted his legs forward as he jumped back and down. Sorry lads I smell a rat. Reminds me of when two journey men - Both lost far more fights than won, give a stirring blood and thunder fight, both going the distance … as Crowd pleasers and get great 'Nobbins' thrown into the ring... rematch clamoured for. Already a rematch is being talked up up for Wilder and Tyson! Excuse being made and will more will abound no doubt! Yes 'Money talks', and where there's money there are crooks and shady deals etc. I'd wager at least one more match - Wilder will win! Yep Tyson to walk into a silly right hand that should never, have landed! etc, One win each and a draw! Then maybe a 'Swan Song' for great money! But I think with £50 million pay off each next time they can both retire with great records and so-called honour. Sorry folks. A sham and a farce. Back to the 40's & 50's. Ok, many on here will disagree. Indeed many will want to disagree. Be that as it may, time will tale. If one remembers, me saying after the Klitso fight I didn't believe it. said it was a money deal and fraud. Yes that I couldn't see Tyson going through with a return, which I thought was on the cards - it being a fix. I was right regard no return. Now I say there is going to be a return. THE simple fact is/being that there are any well known 'Names' to draw a crowd. Tyson's last fights were a hard sale to say the least. Like wise Wilder and Joshua. they will have to do the rounds... and receive colossal earning against each other. Who can blame There simply isn't name worth mentioning, It is the fact. Days are gone of good and genuine fighters. They can earn a lot of bread in sports without injury!