Pigeon fancying is part of the school curriculum at Longshaw Junior School in Blackburn, and recently their birds took first place in Oswaldwistle Homing Society’s race from Tewkesbury.

Seven-year-old Lawson Berry (above) and father Jonathan Berry, who is the deputy headmaster at the school, are two members of the team.

Jonathan said: “Some competitors have 40 years’ experience in pigeon racing so it’s quite an achievement. My son is going to start pigeon racing next year. He said to me he wants his own cabin now. He is absolutely addicted.”

The school has committed itself to promoting the sport of racing pigeons to other schools and has been supported by the local authority who are keen to promote the educational benefits associated with the sport.

Read more in an article on the Lancashire Evening Telegraph website.