Pigeon club in flap over electronic aid

Feathers have been ruffled at a Walsall racing pigeon club after a founder member was banned in a row over the introduction of a new system aimed at helping his disability.

Clifford Clarke, who had his leg amputated in 2007, has been a member of Darlaston and District Flying Club for more than 20 years and has raced pigeons since he was ten. But the 61-year-old, of Edinburgh Avenue, Bentley, has been suspended from the club following a dispute after he asked permission to use a new electronic system aimed at helping the disabled.

The system would mean Mr Clarke would not have to manually catch his pigeons, remove their rubber leg ring and log their time during competitions.

It logs the time when a pigeon lands on an electronic pad, meaning there is no need to catch the bird.

Other members claim this will give him an unfair advantage in competitions, gaining valuable seconds, and they cannot afford the same system.

The Royal Racing Pigeon Association intervened and ordered the Darlaston Road club to allow Mr Clarke to use the electronic system.

The club has appealed against the decision.

Mr Clarke said: "The old system is very difficult for me since I lost my leg. The electronic system is perfect for disabled people like myself and is recognised by the RRPA."

Steve Bailey, president of Darlaston and District Flying Club, said: "Some members are not happy with the decision to use the electronic system because it would give Mr Clarke at least a 15-second advantage.

"The committee voted not to allow the system."