New government measures to prevent the spread of bird flu by banning poultry exhibitions and bird shows could have a serious impact on one of the city's best-loved sports.
The City of Derry Racing Pigeon Federation boasts four clubs and 150 enthusiastic members, but many of their activities may be suspended as a result of measures to tackle bird flu.
Pat McLaughlin, Federation Chairman, is worried that the new legislation will have a serious local impact.
"I'm very very upset. At this time of year there are a lot of
shows and sales, so it will have a serious impact locally. "There's a fair in Ballymena in two weeks, which will have pigeons and equipment for sale, then there's the King's Hall show in early December. The local clubs would also hold a series of winter shows, really as a social event and a bit of craic.
"The ban would affect all those - although obviously we would hope to keep the social events going.
