HUNDREDS of pigeon fanciers could give up their hobby if a ban aimed at halting the spread of bird flu is extended to race meetings, it has been predicted.

The stark warning comes from Brian Tattersall, the North West president of the Royal Pigeon Racing Association, which represents the region's 3,000 pigeon fanciers.

Bird trading at poultry markets has already been cancelled in response to concerns regarding the fatal H5N1 strain of avian influenza.

Under the restrictions all bird markets, shows, fairs, and similar events, where poultry or caged birds may be brought together are prohibited by law.

The ban came into place earlier this month and also prohibits pigeon shows. Pigeon racing is still permitted, but is currently under review.

The racing season finished in September and re-starts in April next year. Mr Tattersall, 68, of Haslingden Old Road, Oswaldtwistle, said: "A ban on racing would have a drastic effect.

"A lot of us are older people who, if forced to stop racing for a season, would be finished. They would never go back. Keeping pigeons is a way of life for thousands of people across the North West, who probably have around 150,000 birds."

Under the terms of the restrictions, pigeon shows -- where fanciers go to buy, sell and compare birds -- are banned until further notice. However, fanciers can buy and sell birds if they originate from the same pigeon loft.

Mr Tattersall added: "During the winter months, which is out of season, we have weekly shows in Accrington and Padiham.

"I'm on the organising committee for the annual British Homing World Show of the Year which usually attracts 25,000 people over two days to the Blackpool Winter Gardens.

"If the ban is still in place by January 21/22, when the show takes place, then it'll be the first time since it began in 1973 that there will no pigeons at the national pigeon show."

The ban has also affected East Lancashire's two weekly bird markets, at Clitheroe and Longridge.