Extra paperwork, veterinary checks and expenses could mean thousands have to give up pastime
Cross-Channel pigeon racing is “hugely at threat” owing to post-Brexit red tape that threatens to drive thousands out of the sport, the head of its governing body has said.
British pigeon fanciers have been racing their birds home from destinations in Europe for more than a century without bureaucratic hurdles. But new EU regulations put in place after Brexit mean any bird entering continental Europe must be treated as if it is being imported, even if the pigeon will fly directly back over the Channel as soon as it is released.