Thousands of pigeon enthusiasts set to flock to Blackpool
Thousands of pigeon enthusiasts set to flock to the resort for the Annual
British Homing World Show of the Year
The annual British Homing World Show is coming to Blackpool from the 21-22 January 2017. This year’s event marks a special occasion as it is the 40th anniversary that the Royal Pigeon Racing Association (RPRA) has held the event at the Winter Gardens, Blackpool.
Show participants bring more than 2,000 homing pigeons making it the largest event of its kind in Europe. With 200 exhibitors stands for everything pigeon, organisers anticipate around some 15,000 visitors over the course of the weekend.
The RPRA has worked continuously with VisitBlackpool over the years to bring the event to the resort and ensure the visitors have a great weekend.
To celebrate the 40th anniversary, Blackpool will be decorated with welcome banners and a giant pigeon flag will fly from the flagpole at the top of Blackpool Tower.
Two giant “pigeons” in the form of Mr and Mrs Pigeon will be in resort on January 21st to entertain visitors to the show.
Ian Evans, RPRA General Manager is delighted the 40th year in Blackpool will be his first year in charge. He said “This is a massive event in our calendar and it always proves to be hugely popular. Not only have you got the attraction of so many pigeons and fanciers in one place but it also gives our members the opportunity to enjoy a weekend away”.
The British Homing World Show of the Year takes place over two days at Blackpool Winter Gardens with the iconic Empress Ballroom hosting the main event.
Council Gillian Campbell, Deputy Leader of Blackpool Council said: “We are delighted to welcome the RPRA back to Blackpool. The show provides a great boost to the local economy; January is usually a quiet month for most seaside resorts but events like this proves that Blackpool is open for business all year round.
“In particular, I am thrilled to congratulate them on the 40th anniversary show here in Blackpool, this is truly a fantastic achievement and we hope to see them return for many years to come”.
Every year visitors to the show have helped to raise money for various charities, with nearly £3 million raised so far.