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As announced yesterday in the SNRPC annual auction will be held this year for the first time live on Facebook. The sale will run for 7 days from 6/4/25 A massive thanks to all the fanciers who have donated! 1. PETER KEOGH WINCHBURGH 2. BRIAN CHALMERS KENNOYWAY 3. T&G WEIR LINLITHGOW 4. JOHN HADFIELD BLACKBURN 5. F&W ROBERTSTON DANDERHALL 6. JIMMY MARK TRANENT 7. MARTYN BROWN BONESS 8. ROBERT WALKER EYEMOUTH 9. A ORR & SON BRIGHTONS 10. TAM MANGER BONESS 11. DANNY HENDERSON DUNDEE 12. C&C CAMERON ARBROATH 13. SCOT RUSSELL DENNY 14. KEN BUCHANNAN HAMILTON X2 15. D H OGILVIE STIRLING 16. AS THOMSON & SON PORT SETON 17. DUNCAN KNOX DUNBAR 18. DAVID MCBEATH AVONBRIDGE 19. NORMAN RENTON FOULDEN 20. P. W VIRTUE COCKBURNSPATH 21. A&E LUKE DUNBAR 22. MASKAME & CORDINER PETERHEAD 23. CAMMY HEEPS BONESS 24. MIKE PARKER SOUTH WALES 25. GEORDIE HARRIS DUNIPACE 26. RYAN HAY & FAMILY BANFF 27. LAWRENCE & CURRAN DUNDEE 28. GEACH BROS, MCKENNA & CHAPMAN HARTLEPOOL X2 29. ALASDAIR MACLEAN OBAN 30. BOB MCKIE BLACKHALL MILL 31. HENRY BORTHWICK WINCHBURGH 32. STEVIE FARRAGHER LIVERPOOL 33. BRIAN KELLY CHIRNSIDE 34. SCOTT MORRISON GRANGEMOUTH 35. GORDON MACKENZIE BROXBURN 36. KEVIN WHITHAM DUNBAR 37. IAN ROSS KIRKINTILLOCH 38. VIC COUPAR DENNYLOANHEAD 39. HBW DUMBARTON 40. RAB HAMILTON CAMPUS The sale will be shared on all different pigeon groups but bid will only be accepted under each lot on the official SNRPC page Phone bid will be accepted also to the SNRPC secretary David McArthur or you can private message the SNRPC Facebook page if you wish to remain anonymous. Many thanks! 🙏🏼

When I was a wee lad this guy was , and still is, a legend. Here's info from WP Wortley, written in his usual, detailed, way. Tom Little Tom Little was a really good fancier who resided in the village of Creca, which is located two miles North of Annan. Tom kept pigeons from schoolboy years and when 12 years old joined the original Hoddom Club obtaining six rings only to ring his modest team of youngsters. Tom joined the Forces in 1939 and was demobbed in 1946. In his absence on War duty his father continued to keep pigeons in a modest way and when Tom returned home and settled back into home life, he built a new loft and studiously considered from whom he should obtain stock. In an article that he wrote for one of the Stud Books he said “I looked through the pigeon journals for a few weeks and then my attention was drawn to the advertisement of Mr. Duncan Thomson from Muirend, Glasgow, who was giving up the sport owing to age. The pigeons offered were advertised as Logans and from what I now know of this family they certainly looked the part, being Dark Chequers and rather below medium size. I applied to Mr. Thomson for two pairs and in reply he asked me if I had been in the Forces during the War. When I wrote to him to say I was in the Commandos he sent me two selected pairs at half the advertised price and also an extra one as a gift”. Tom wrote to Duncan Thomson to enquire if he could obtain pedigrees for the new acquisitions and lo and behold a large box arrived loaded with prize tickets and a letter, which stated that his pedigree was the basket as could be seen from the prize tickets and when Tom had viewed them he had to return them to the sender. That was good enough for Tom. He had been friendly also pre-war with Tom Stodart from Linbridgeford, Waterbeck, Near Lockerbie who was the son of a farmer and had invested heavily in quality bloodlines. Shortly after Tom returned home his friend was regrettably killed in a road accident and following the accident, Tom Stodart’s mother invited him to take several of the pigeons and these and the stock obtained from Duncan Thomson formed the basis of his family. Tom never initially knew the breeding of the Stodart pigeons but after he penned an article for one of the Stud Books he received a letter from a fancier with several adverts that had been placed in the Fancy Press, which suggested that the Stodart pigeons were Logan based. I have indeed just looked at an advert included in the Squills Annual in 1941, which confirms that they were basically Logan with a Galway cross. Interestingly included in the advert is a photo of a Red Chequer cock named ‘Solway King’, which was a prolific winner and won the Fed. from Christchurch in 1940 with a velocity of 749ypm on a very difficult day. Post War Tom initially joined Gretna Club and actually won the first race he entered. He then competed in the Federation Channel event from Guernsey in 1949 and won. He told me that he was quietly optimistic that the team of pigeons that he and his father were assembling was showing such promise he believed they could compete at the highest level. In 1951 from Rennes there were only five arrivals on the night, Jack McKay from Annan won the race with ‘Festival Triumph’ and John Kirkpatrick was 2nd with ‘Galabank King’. Tom Little timed one of the five arrivals and was 5th. Move forward to 1952 with John Kirkpatrick being 1st and 2nd Open from Nantes with ‘Galabank Prince’ and ‘Galabank Duke’. On that occasion Tom was again hard on his heels being 3rd Section 7th Open. In 1953 Tom was 10th and 12th Open from Nantes, this incidentally being the race from which John Kirkpatrick was 3rd Open with ‘Galabank Queen’. Tom told me that having successfully re-entered the Fancy, he was aware that other fanciers were taking note and indeed one sunny Spring day he had a visit from John Kirkpatrick and George Jackson who had walked to Creca from Annan. They looked at the pigeons but whilst they were at the loft didn’t make any specific comment. Following their visit, however, Tom met John Kirkpatrick on the street who told him that he thought Tom had a marvellous team of hens to which Tom responded that he recognised that John Kirkpatrick had an equally good team of cocks. John Kirkpatrick suggested that they do a swap and said he would like a small yearling, which he described as “that awfully wee hen” and by indication of his hands inferred that the pigeon was infinitesimal. Tom thought to himself “the pigeon doesn’t look extra special to me but if Johnny wants it there must be something about it that I can’t see”. He therefore declined the swap and his judgement proved to be correct as the pigeon ‘3813’ developed into be one of Tom’s best ever pigeons scoring three times from Rennes. A friendship was nevertheless formed with John Kirkpatrick and as the months passed he received several birds from him including a direct son of ‘Galabank Supreme’ and the nest-mate of what became known as ‘Galabank Producer’. When John Kirkpatrick died he was gifted two further birds by Mrs. Kirkpatrick. The Kirkpatrick introductions didn’t just blend with the original Logan family, they ignited it. He won the Federation on numerous occasions including the Solway Federation channel event, which he won several times. He won the South of Scotland Channel Club channel race twice and won also the Channel Club Yearling Race and Young Bird Race. In the days of intense competition when racing with the S.N.F.C., Tom gained the following Open positions. He was 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 8th, 9th, 10th twice, 11th, and 12th from Rennes, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 8th, 9th 10th 11th and 12th from Nantes, 2nd, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th Falaise and 1st Open Avranches. He scored on numerous occasions from the Y.B. National with his best position being 3rd Open. I elaborate below on two of the performances. In 1966 three channel races were flown; the first from Rennes, which was won by Jim and John Nash from Croy with Blue hen ‘Daphne’s Delight’. The second race was flown from Nantes that was won by Jimmy Hamilton from Kennoway with Red Pied Hen ‘Nan’s Pride’. The third race was flown from Avranches with a convoy of 2,937 birds being liberated at 5.45am into a light North East wind. 21 birds only made home on the day of liberation with Tom Little heading the result with Chequer Pied hen ‘Creca Pride’ that was timed at 7.32pm and headed the result by 36ypm with a velocity of 946ypm. The following year the S.N.F.C. Blue Riband event was flown from Rennes with a convoy of 5,701 birds being liberated at 5.45am into a South West wind, which turned to S.E. en-route. Robbie Hope from Eastriggs was 1st Open with a velocity of 1645ypm, followed by Tom Little on 1606ypm. Tom’s 2nd Open Rennes was Mealy Hen ‘Angela’, which like the Avranches winner contained Kirkpatrick x Logan bloodlines. Tom’s father had really bad eye sight but notwithstanding his disability he assisted Tom at the loft. When they were 2nd Open Falaise Tom was in the house and his father was working in the garden. His father ‘heard’ a pigeon and went to the house to alert Tom and the remainder of the story is history. As the years moved forward other lines were brought into the loft including examples of Ewart Warwick’s family and a son of Rob and Elliot Borthwick’s great pigeon ‘Happy’. Amongst the performance pigeons to emerge in the loft, was Dark Chequer hen ‘3440’, which was 5th, 7th, 12th and 42nd Open Nantes. Such was the quality of the hen that he had it photographed with the photo being published in the Gazette. The following year he sent a basketful of pigeons to Preston on the train to be tossed in preparation for the Nationals and the hen failed to return. Tom always wondered if it had been removed from the basket in the train. It should be noted also that Tom bred a number of top quality pigeons for other fanciers. Consider, for example that he bred the Dam of Mr. and Mrs. Horsburgh’s ‘Fechan Lass’ that was 1st and 3rd Open S.N.F.C. Rennes. The Dam was a beautiful pigeon with a fabulous eye and won the Eye Sign Class in the Solway Federation Show on two occasions. Hind and Crombie’s great hen ‘Shawhill Faithful’ was bred from a Kirkpatrick cock when coupled to a Tom Little Logan hen. The Logan hen was only one day old when Jim Crombie and George Hind received it from Tom. They brought it home from Creca in a handkerchief and reared it under a pair of their own pigeons. She proved to be a very able performer and flew the channel four times, always on the day of liberation and gained 13th Solway Fed Dol and 112th Open S.N.F.C. Rennes. At stock she left a number of winners including ‘Shawhill Faithful’, which flew the channel five times with her favourite race point being Rennes. She scored from Rennes on four occasions with her best performance being achieved in 1966, when she was 1st Section 2nd Open. In 1978 Jim Crombie was 1st Open Nantes with Dark Hen ‘Shawhill Elizabeth’ when there were only two arrivals on the night, with the National winner being on the wing from 15 Hours 40 Minutes. The second pigeon on the night was indeed timed by Tom Little. The following year ‘Shawhill Elizabeth’ went back to Nantes and was again timed on the night to be 9th Section 13th Open. ‘Shawhill Elizabeth’, incidentally, was home bred and contained the lines of the same ‘Shawhill Faithful’, going back again to the Logan lines of Tom Little. Tom also bred the Sire of Tony Hodges pigeon that was 1st and 2nd Palamos, the Dam of the bird that won the Y.B. National for Tom Laidlaw from Jedburgh and the Dam also of Rob and Elliot Borthwick’s Y.B. National winner. When John Hodgson moved to live in Annan in 1976 he was gifted a Dark Chequer Cock by Tom Little, which won right out to Nantes and at stock left a number of winners. I could go on and on and quote these as examples …. I should mention that when Brydekirk Club was formed in 1949, Tom was one of the founder members and remained a member until his passing in 1985. It should be noted also that having previously moved the pigeons by Rail, the Solway Federation broke with tradition in 1966 and began transporting the birds by road, with the Solway and East Cumberland Federation pigeons being conveyed together in a single transporter. The transporter was owned by local haulage contractor, Wm. Halliday & Sons, the arrangement having been negotiated and agreed between friends Tom Little and Tom Halliday, who was the proprietor of the haulage company. We publish several photos with this article. (a) Chequer Pied hen ‘Creca Pride’ that was 1st Open S.N.F.C. Avranches 1966; (b) Mealy Hen ‘Angela’ that was 2ND Open Rennes 1967; (c) Dark Chequer hen ‘811’, which was 5th Open Rennes 1951, 35th Open Rennes 1952, 122nd Open Rennes 1953, 17th Open Rennes 1954 and 64th Open Rennes 1955; (d) Blue Chequer hen ‘3813’ that was 1st Solway Fed. Christchurch as a yearling, 16th Section 27th Open Rennes 1954, 4th Section 25th Open Rennes 1955 and 3rd Section 53rd Open Rennes 1955; (e) The Blue Pied cock Kirkpatrick cock photographed won 5 – 1st in the Club, was 1st and 2nd Fed. Inland and 8th Fed. from Avranches. From one channel crossing he failed to return and was reported in Altenburg, North Germany. He escaped from the loft in Germany and homed single up, a straight line distance of 707 miles. (f) We also include a group photo that includes John Kirkpatrick, George Jackson and Tom Little (right). The photo was taken in Glasgow when the friends were attending an S.N.F.C. Meeting. ( g) The final photo shows Tom Little at home. I trust that our readers have found this overview of interest as we have reflected on the ability and achievements of Tom Little from Creca.

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Copied from Facebook Aberdeen Federation are looking for a driver for this 2025 season, from April to early September. Friday is basket day, from 5pm onwards, there are 3 club pick up points in Aberdeen and Saturday will be racing day weather permitting. Driver needs a full, clean driving license, if interested, please contact Alan Williamson on 07979 718869.

Grasshopper Chronicles: The Birdman Of Alcatraz In the world of pigeon racing and bird keeping, knowledge is everything. A fancier who understands his birds, their health, and their environment will always have an edge over those who rely on luck alone. While modern pigeon medicine has come a long way, the foundations of avian health management were built upon years of careful observation and trial and error. Few individuals embody this relentless pursuit of understanding better than Robert Stroud, better known as the Birdman of Alcatraz. Stroud’s story is an extraordinary one. Despite spending over half a century behind bars, he became one of the most knowledgeable avian researchers of his time. His work, carried out under the most restrictive conditions, led to breakthroughs in understanding bird diseases and their treatments. With no formal education in veterinary medicine, no access to modern laboratories, and limited resources, he managed to diagnose, treat, and even cure illnesses that were devastating to captive birds. His meticulous approach to bird health offers lessons that remain relevant today, not just for those keeping songbirds but also for pigeon fanciers striving to maintain peak health in their lofts. Stroud’s journey into bird keeping began in the most unlikely of places—inside the walls of Leavenworth Penitentiary. It started with a single injured sparrow that he nursed back to health. This small act of kindness ignited a deep fascination, leading him to acquire and breed canaries within his cell. What started as a simple hobby soon turned into a full-scale scientific study. Despite being confined to a tiny space, Stroud observed everything—how his birds behaved, how they responded to different diets, and most importantly, how diseases affected them. Without access to textbooks or professional guidance, he relied on his own keen eye and relentless curiosity. He noted symptoms, identified patterns, and experimented with remedies, all while keeping meticulous records. Over time, he built a deep understanding of avian illnesses and, in doing so, made groundbreaking discoveries in the field of bird medicine. One of Stroud’s greatest contributions was in recognising and categorising avian diseases. He studied bacterial infections, respiratory ailments, digestive disorders, and nutritional deficiencies—many of which are just as relevant to pigeons as they are to canaries. His work was eventually compiled into Diseases of Canaries, a book that is still referenced today. Among the many diseases he encountered, one of the most significant was haemorrhagic septicaemia, a deadly bacterial infection that caused internal bleeding and rapid death. Stroud discovered that disinfecting drinking water with potassium permanganate reduced bacterial spread, a method that is still used today in various forms of avian care. He also experimented with silver nitrate as an antiseptic for treating wounds and infections. Another major challenge he tackled was coccidiosis. Stroud quickly realised that keeping cages scrupulously clean was crucial in preventing reinfection, as the disease spreads through contaminated droppings. Later, when sulpha-based drugs became available, he tested them extensively and found them to be highly effective. Even today, pigeon fanciers battling coccidiosis use sulpha-based treatments, proving that his methods were far ahead of their time. Stroud also studied respiratory infections, a common issue in pigeons and other birds, especially in poorly ventilated environments. He noted that damp conditions led to breathing problems and sought ways to alleviate them. One of his solutions was the use of eucalyptus and menthol vapours to clear airways—an old remedy that has stood the test of time. He also recognised the benefits of cod liver oil, understanding that its rich vitamin content supported immune function and overall health. Perhaps one of his most important discoveries was the role of nutrition in disease prevention. Stroud believed that many illnesses stemmed not from infection, but from poor diet. He found that brewer’s yeast was an excellent source of B vitamins, essential for maintaining energy and feather condition. He also recommended adding bone meal and crushed eggshells to diets to ensure adequate calcium intake. Grit and charcoal were also part of his regime, aiding digestion and preventing crop-related issues. One of Stroud’s great admirers for avian health was the much-beloved scribe Bilco. Bilco studied Stroud for many years, drawing from his work to develop his own understanding of bird health. His passion for Stroud’s findings led him to create a product called Xerex, which proved to be an outstanding remedy for young bird sickness. Unfortunately, this great product disappeared from the market when Bilco passed, and when the company he outsourced its production to, Dazer International, folded. Those who used Xerex will remember its effectiveness, and it remains a much-missed tool in the fight against young bird sickness. Being someone who always wants to learn, I have spent time researching and experimenting, and I believe I may have worked out the formula which on the ingredients only ever said ‘Mixed Carbonates’. In true Stroud fashion, I will observe and test it on my own birds, and a few close friends have agreed to try it and we will study its effects when—like every year—young bird sickness inevitably strikes. No doubt if my findings are correct, I will discuss my observations with the fancy. One of my biggest bugbears, although it has no influence on performance, is when you look at your own or somebody else’s young birds, pull out the wing, and see the slightest of frets on the first flight. This appears in at least 95% of young birds I have seen over the years. The 5% where it doesn’t appear? When I ask their owners, the response is almost always the same—they are summer-bred. This instantly makes me think that cold temperatures play a role in this defect. Could it be that the harsh conditions during feather growth in the winter months cause a disruption in the structure of the feather? It’s a question that has fascinated me for years. Now, this wasn’t a Stroud experiment, but an adaptation of an article I wrote many years ago on my good friends Micky and Michael Connolly. In the nest of their young birds, every other day, they would give a brewer’s yeast tablet and a cod liver oil tablet. I’ve taken this idea and experimented with it myself, but with one key difference—I’ve been giving both supplements once a day, every day, throughout the winter. The results so far? Every young bird I’ve produced using this method is completely free of that dreaded fret line in the first flight. Both brewer’s yeast and cod liver oil were favourites of Stroud. Brewer’s yeast for its high B-vitamin content, supporting feather growth and metabolism. Cod liver oil for its omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, crucial for bone and feather strength. Have I cracked the mystery that’s bugged me for years? I won’t commit to saying definitely, but I will continue observing, continue experimenting, and continue refining my approach. In true Stroud fashion, the answers are there to be found—we just need the patience and curiosity to look for them. Master Po once said "A man who listens, learns. A man who observes, understands. But a man who acts upon his understanding, that man will never be without knowledge." Stroud’s legacy is a testament to this wisdom. Though he was trapped behind bars, his mind soared far beyond his confinement. He proved that with patience, curiosity, and determination, we can unlock the secrets of bird health—not by blindly following trends, but by trusting in what we see with our own eyes. And in that, there is a lesson for us all.

good wee man. Hopefully a few winners from it

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2024 Winners A&E LUKE 1st Section 1st Open Eastbourne SNRPC

2024 Winners Robert Walker 1st Section 1st Open Billericay SNRPC

2024 Winners S Ritchie 1st Section 1st Open Brighton SNRPC

Copied from Facebook Well that's our lorry ready for the season,old girl has been parked up since the end of last season,checked her over yesterday needed a couple of bulbs and a new tyre fitted(old tyre was good but out of date), gave it a wash and put her in for it's annual mot test today,straight pass with no advisorys,it just shows that if you look after the lorry through the season you don't get a big bill at the start of the year

The peregrine falcon, the fastest creature on Earth, swoops down on its prey at 400 km/h without being affected by the enormous air pressure. The secret? A small bone in its nose called the "tubercles", which slows the airflow and protects its respiratory system. This engineering marvel inspired aeronautical engineers, and the design of modern engines was inspired by it, which increased the speed of aircraft and increased their stability. Even the American B-2 bomber, worth a billion dollars, was inspired by the aerodynamics of the peregrine falcon during an attack. And in that is a sign for those who ponder, Glory be to Him who perfected everything, and placed in a small creature a secret that led humanity to tremendous development.

Please share on behalf of the family. It is with great sadness and broken hearts, the family are announcing the passing away of a very much loved man, Mr John King, known to most as Jock or Jocky. Jock, fell peacefully into eternal sleep, at Raith Manor Care Home, on Friday, 7th February, 2025, aged 84 years. Jock was the cherished husband to Mary, a much loved dad to Elaine, John, Alan, a beloved father in law to Murray and Wendy, a devoted grandad to Lewis, Amanda, Rebecca, Graeme, Amy, Jenny, Rhianna, Shannon, and the late Scott, an adored great-grandad to Erin and Cillian, a loving uncle to Margaret-Ann, Jim and William, and good friend to so many. Jock will be sorely missed by all who knew him. Funeral Service will be held on Monday, 24th February, at 3.45 p.m., at Kirkcaldy Crematorium, to which all family and friends are respectfully invited. Family Flowers only please but donations may be made at the crematorium for Dementia UK. The family would also like to invite you all back to Dunnikier Golf Club, after the service, for some light refreshments and to share fond memories of Jock. www.ianjohnstonfuneraldirectors.co.uk

Gaby Vandenabeele, a legendary figure in pigeon racing, retired from the sport. His decision was influenced by health concerns, and he made the tough choice to stop keeping pigeons to avoid any further health issues. Gaby's pigeons have left a significant mark on the pigeon racing world, and his legacy continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts and fanciers.

Paul Sion and Dr. Arthur Bricoux were both legendary pigeon fanciers known for their exceptional breeding skills and success in pigeon racing. Dr. Arthur Bricoux was a Belgian pigeon fancier who gained fame between the two World Wars. He was renowned for his meticulous breeding techniques and his ability to produce winning pigeons consistently. Dr. Bricoux's pigeons were known for their endurance and speed, and he won numerous national and long-distance races. He often used inbreeding but also introduced outcrosses to maintain the vitality of his pigeons. Dr. Bricoux's breeding methods included inbreeding and occasional out-crossing to maintain the strength of his pigeon strain. He was one of the pioneers of flying pigeons on widowhood, a technique that contributed to his numerous victories. His pigeons won an incredible number of prizes, including 14 First Prizes, 12 Seconds, and 124 in the first 20 during the 1930s. Paul Sion was a French pigeon fancier from Tourcoing. He was known for his collaboration with Dr. Bricoux, exchanging young birds to enhance their respective breeding programs. Sion's pigeons were also highly regarded for their performance in races, and the combination of Sion and Bricoux pigeons produced outstanding results.

Jim Hannah the famous Scottish photographer forwarded me some old photographs he had taken over the years, as he thought they may be of interest for the column. Jim remarked that I had mentioned Major Hutton in a past article and he included a photo of the Major judging some barless blue bars exhibited by the famous fancier Matt White of Paisley. (who won Rennes in 1980) This photograph was taken at the first exhibition of this rare family of barless blues and mealies; taken at the People International Show of Racing Pigeons in London in 1964. (see photo) Jim also gave me 3 photographs of the Major’s top pigeons which I have also included in this article. ‘The Outlaw’ - Blue chequer cock; rung SHU35L & RP6234; bred by Major Hutton. 6th Pentrith LSC & Shrewsbury 1935. Weymouth 1936; 1st Dublin Lanark Federation; 14th open Race 1937. 2nd Jersey LWHS, 25th open & pools 1937.10th Nantes LSC 93rd section 176th open SNFC 1937. 3rd Gretna LSC 3RD Swindon LWHS 1938; 7th Rennes; 6th Nantes LSC 39th section 74th open SNFC; 12th Swindon LS 1939. ‘TUTIMES’ – Blue chequer cock; rung SHU35L & RP6258; bred by Major Hutton from his Rennes Pair. Flown Kirkham 1935; 1st Swindon LWHS 1936; winning the clubs 1st Weymouth LWHS 1936 winning Old Bird Cup. 6th Oxford LSC and Rennes (538 miles) 1937. 3rd Rennes LSC 49th section 77th open SNFC. 1938 2nd 500 miles Cock class LWHS 1937 & 1938. ‘The Laird’ - Blue chequer cock; rung SURP31 GF 392; Late bred by Major Hutton 1933.1st Millom LWHS; 6th Fed 1935; 1934. 3rd Maryport; 5th Kirkham LWHS; 35th Weymouth 35; 9th Dol (500 miles) LSC; 25th open race 1936. 5th Rugby LSC (only 9 members timed in) 1937- 12th Rennes LSC; 125th section 196th open SNFC; 1938 1ST & Best in Show Motherwell 1936; 3rd in 1938, 1st 300-mile cock class; 1938 3rd 1937 LWHS Rennes 500 miles. North of the Forth The Fife and Tayside fanciers have done very well in the national races this past season; which is not unusual for fanciers north of the river Forth, as they have obtained excellent records from long distance SNFC races for many years. However as hard as I have tried to obtain information on the present-day winning pigeons it is like drawing blood from a stone. I don’t know if they cannot be bothered getting in touch, but it is their loss and they and their pigeons who are not obtaining the publicity. My article will still appear in the BHW and I will always find something interesting to add. I was speaking to the editor and he explained to me that the paper has to match a capacity of 56 pages on a weekly basis; which will include adverts. When you see an advert that takes up 8 pages of the magazine, (remember these people are paying for the privilege of advertising in the paper). Like any other business the BHW cannot afford to turn these adverts down so therefore scribes’ articles can only take up so much of the paper. Richard has informed not just me but others that we may have to give way so that the paper makes its allocated space. I hope this clarifies this situation regarding readers of my column and I thank Richard for his explanation. Going back to fanciers from the past I came across an article on one of the most famous fanciers from this area; the late and great Robert Strachan of Invergowrie who won the Tayside Fancier of the Year in 1965. An article written by ‘Taysider’ whom I’m assuming was the late Jim George (Round O) from Arbroath; wrote. ‘After what has been regarded as the most arduous racing season for some years, the title of Fancier of the Year in this part of the country must inevitably go to Robert Strachan, the Invergowrie ACE. Robert’s birds flew consistently well all season and finished with a great flourish by taking 1st and 3rd positions from the Federations 550 miles Dol race under very trying conditions. This grand-slam finish gave him the bulk of silverware, including the R J Blair and Whitbread Trophies, for 1st bird Dol, The Melrose Drover for best average Christchurch 400 miles, and Dol and the much sought after Fyfe-Jamieson Trophy for the best average in the three longest federation races. However, his proudest moment ever, came when he won his own father’s Memorial Trophy-The Strachan Memorial for best average in ALL Federation races. Since Bob started racing in the Dundee Club in 1947 (the year I was born Joe M) he has been to the fore on more than one occasion, winning club and federation averages frequently, the fact that his confined to a wheel-chair makes his triumphs all the more remarkable. Although he is a very successful club flyer it is his national performances that made the name of Strachan of Invergowrie a household word throughout the country. His finest hour was recorded by the great-hearted Blue Pied Hen ‘Tayside Princess’, who was 4th open Rennes 580 miles in 1955 and went one better the following year taking 3rd open, surely one of the greatest ever double triumphs at the distance in this part of the country. ‘Princesses lived to a good old age and left some excellent stock to carry on her line, then one day she just disappeared and Robert never knew the fate of his fabulous hen. (It would have more probably been a hawk attack Joe M). Another of the birds which helped make the name of Strachan famous was the courageous Red Cock ‘Starlight Special’, which was clocked at the unbelievable time of nine minutes to midnight on the day from Rennes to take 72nd open, two great efforts in this neck of the woods where day birds are rare indeed. He owes a lot of his success to his great friend and ex-partner Willie Wilson of Larkhall, another great name in the Fancy, they exchanged birds from time to time, and this no doubt keeps each other in the forefront of the racing fraternity. A recent introduction is a son of J & P Dora’s National winner ‘The Fifer’ which was a surprise birthday present from his wife. This year’s Dol winner was a long cast racy-looking red hen SU59T4866, who was timed in at 11-06am on the second morning, recording a velocity of 769 ypm and collected a nice cheque for £62. Known as ‘Leading Lady’, this grand hen is a grand-daughter of the legendary ‘Tayside Princess’. Next bird home was his more fancied contender Blue Chequer 62T5715, one which can be considered to be a Channel veteran with several 500 -mile jaunts behind her. She was timed at 11-26am and registered a velocity of 741 ypm and took the lion’s share of the pools with a fine total of £92. So much for the joys of pigeon racing on to the hard knocks one h as to take in his stride. Bob lost the bulk of his young bird team at the Riccarton smash, however, those that were left pressed on to the bitter end, in the true tradition of the Strachan pigeons, and no doubt next season they’ll be doing their best to make their master once again the Tayside Fancier of the Year. Christmas Race Received the following information from Barry Kinnear from Danderhall RPC regarding their Christmas Race; which was flown on Saturday 21st of December 2024. 24 Lofts had pre-paid for 29 members sending 177 birds. The convoy was liberated at 10-10am into a very strong west to south west wind (Temp 7 c) There was 12 prizes paid out as follows; £500; £80; £40; £35; £30; £25; £20; £17; £15; £12; £10. Taking top spot is K Wright with a velocity of 900.63 with a flying time of 2 hours 27 minutes 19 seconds for the 75 miles 678 yards, winning £837.50p. The Black & Coupe partnership times in 2 birds to win 2nd & 3rd open winning £120. R Sammels also timed in 2 birds to win 4th & 7th open winning £107. S & S Tierney are 5th winning £31-50. Primrose & Bell are on the same velocity just beaten into 6th place and £25. W Kinnear & son Barry are 8th 9th 10th & 11th with the four birds winning £1030 for their efforts. J Porter wins the final 12th place; in-fact 20 birds made it home within the first 30 minutes. A big thank you to Willie & Russel Dunsmore for transporting the birds. This is the 31st year of the Christmas Race Please find the following history of this Christmas Race which started in 1994. Year Lofts Birds Race Point Race Winner Velocity Pigeon Payout 1994 22 83 Morpeth Primrose & Bell 739 94P2680 £1000 1995 33 110 Hexham R O’Neill 594 95P147 £1809 1996 24 72 Hexham G Fish 860 95P60 £1726 1997 30 115 Hexham Primrose & Bell 561 97P1775 £1639 1998 39 128 Wooler W&B Dunsmore ---- 98F93834 ------ 1999 54 226 Wooler Primrose & Bell 1266 99P3637 £3190 2000 38 160 Wooler G Adams 1407 99P5133 £3307 2001 33 171 Wooler R O’Neill 668 00P6576 £3598 2002 39 182 Wooler P Melville ----- 00P4977 £4050 2003 43 216 Wooler W Kinnear & Son 576 GB03E46675 £5103 2004 225 Morpeth P Melville 962 03P2753 £5755 2005 42 214 Morpeth McCormack & Fraser 833 04P61 £6183 2006 38 191 Morpeth W Kinnear & Son 1068 GB06J02558 £4897 2007 42 248 Morpeth J Douglas 922 GB07Z96103 £5487 2008 45 252 Morpeth A Young 1027 07P6476 £6185 2009 45 255 Morpeth G Cairns 727 08ML4399 £5177 2010 36 230 Morpeth C MacGregor ---- 10P4250 £5322 2011 52 258 Morpeth D Brown 776 10L5731 £6061 2012 49 313 Morpeth W Kinnear &Son 1303 NWHU12 B0340 £6084 2013 40 195 Morpeth W Kinnear &Son ------ NWHU12 B0340 £4361 2014 35 192 Morpeth W Kinnear &Son 937 14P1004 £3659 2015 36 199 Morpeth T Waddell 1409 13P239 £4573 2016 47 247 Morpeth A Young 1383 14P1611 £5496 2017 37 218 Morpeth F Robertson ----- NEHU17NY277 £-- 2018 30 200 Morpeth L Mitchel 1076 18P3601 £4875 2019 33 248 Morpeth A W Robertson 511 15P1309 £5143 2020 RACE CANCELLED DUE TO COVID 2021 28 177 Morpeth S & S Tierney 923 20P2702 £4658 2022 31 251 Morpeth R Sammels ---- 22P1533 £4072 2023 27 202 Morpeth A S Thomson & Son --- 23TR1066 £3906 2024 29 177 Morpeth K Wright 900 23-5575 £3168 Total Payout £127,751 Sponsored Prize Winners for 2024; Winners Donated By Annual Trophy for 1st K Wright The Late Peter Melville Whisky for 2nd member; Black & Coupe Harmore Construction Malt Whisky (7th Place) R Sammels Colin MacGregor Bag of Feeding (13th Place) A W Robertson Rod Pringle Bag of Feeding (Last on Result|) A & A Baillie Rob Pringle My thanks to Barry Kinnear for the above information; cheers mate. Joe Murphy Mystical Rose Cottage 2 Flutorum Avenue Thornton by Kirkcaldy KY1 4BD or phone 01592 770331 or Email to joejmurphy1@gmail.com REMEMBER THE J IN THE MIDDLE or log onto www.elimarpigeons.com - cogeco.ca -forum@pigeonbasics.com who wish my weekly contribution portfolio on pigeon topics from Scotland © Compiled by Joe Murphy

Throwback: The life’s work of the Janssen brothers.

Now that the main show season is over, here is the calendar of events that Tumley Lofts and Tumley Supplies are attending. 1st March Ebbw Vale away day sale 15th March Tumley Lofts open day from 10am 22nd March Epsom Spring Fayre 13th April Plymouth Leir Market Please come along to these events and support them. A lot of work is put in by the organisers to make a great day for pigeon fancies. We support these events otherwise without the support of the traders and fancy they will disappear. In our experience, all these shows are a great day for any hardened fancier or novice alike. It's our 41st year this year and Tumley Lofts is always proud to support the sport if we can

Copied from Facebook Steven van Breemen is a pigeon fancier and author from the Netherlands. He has over 65 years of experience in pigeon racing and breeding. Steven has written several e-books on the subject, including "The Art of Breeding" and "The Secrets of Mating, Breeding, and Selecting". His work is highly regarded in the pigeon racing community for its in-depth knowledge and practical advice. Is there something specific you'd like to know about Steven van Breemen? Click this link: http://www.stevenvanbreemen.nl/?Home

SCOTTISH LIER MARKET 2025! Potential Date - 6/4/25 Location - Camelon Juniors, Falkirk Anyone interested in a pitch it will be £50 per stall with a maximum of 25 sellers. Get in touch if your interested 1. S Russell 2. M.A.C Lofts Pigeon Products 3. Martyn Broon 4. Bo’ness Pigeon Club 5. Freddy Robertson William Robertson 6. North of Scotland Fed (Ryan Hay) 7. Colin Leask 8. George Hepburn 9. Scottish Distance Doo Club 10. Dumbarton Pigeon Club

Copied from Facebook Race Programme 2025 for the SNRPC 21/6/25 - Billericay 28/6/25 - Maidstone (CONVOY UNC) 19/7/25 - Arras (CONVOY UNC) 6/9/25 - Grantham CENTRAL FED More details to follow regarding birdage prices & marking stations for all of the above races. Membership Fees - £35. Yours in sport SNRPC

Copied from Facebook De Wit brothers started the pigeon sport in 1951 as a trio: Henk, Jaap, and Gerard. After Gerard dropped out, only two people remained. Due to the dissatisfaction with the results, they began to acquire improved pigeons from 1959 onwards, and that was done by Jos van Limpt, better known as De Klak. The brothers quickly became champions with the reinvented Janssen pigeons from Klak. The brothers wanted to measure themselves against the best in all areas, up to and including the extreme long distance, The latter of course with other pigeons. But they were mainly known for their strong racing with the Janssen pigeons that they bought from different sources: by Klak of course, in the total auction of J. van Kesteren who also kept them pure, by Aart Griekspoor who got them from Nic Janssen (Gronsveld), also the strain of doctor Linssen who also got them mainly from Klak, a Verbart pigeon via Jan Ouwerkerk etc. If only it was Janssen... However, it was half a Janssen that made the big breakthrough and then we are talking about the well-known "Bosboer", a Wouters-Meulemans that they got from Cees van Tilburg better known as De Bosboer (Wouwse Plantage - Roosendaal). Henk and Jaap De Wit had fantastic birds indeed, but unfortunately both of them passed away and all the birds were auctioned in 1993. CTTO: De duif