Sixty pigeons perish in blaze (From Warrington Guardian)

Sixty pigeons perish in blaze

HE charred remains of 60 birds is all that is left of pigeon racing veteran Roy Eardley's pride and joy.

For that is the only trace of the racing birds which had been lovingly reared by veteran enthusiast Roy after an act of vicious cruelty by arsonists.

The pigeons which had nurtured by Roy and his wife Nita, died when a blaze ripped through the loft during the night at allotments on Sutton Moss, off Hoghton Road, Sutton.

Among the dead, were champion birds which had competed in 500-mile cross channel races, and youngsters that Roy was grooming for the future.

The 63-year-old, who has 30 years experience in the sport, said: "Why would someone do this? I don't know how I could have upset anyone. I'm devastated, I really am."

Roy's pigeons consistently win competitions organised by St Helens Flying Club and Sutton Oak, the results of which feature in the Star Sport reports.

His wife, Nita, 62, added: "The birds were our pride and joy. We've hardly slept for the past week, we're just so angry and upset."

Roy has some younger pigeons based in another loft and has vowed to nurture another champion team.

Roy, who is a grandfather of four, added. "I was going to pack it pack it in but I will carry on. I won't them get me down."