As to whether Pigeon Racing could be called a sport is open to conjecture. This was certainly a widespread recreation and taken seriously across the Black Country. In the Gornal area, a pigeon loft at the foot of the garden was commonplace.
The Pear Tree and Woodman Inns both had clubs.
Although interest in the sport has dwindled in recent times, a few lofts remain in the area and the tell-tale circling groups of pigeons can still be seen.
1880: Huddersfield Chronicle - 24 July.
At Sedgley, on Wednesday, four men were charged with rioting in Himley-road, Lower Gornal. A dispute took place over a pigeon-flying match, and resulted in a general riot taking place, and people being seriously injured by stones being thrown at their heads. The prisoners, who were badly hurt, said they were compelled to fight or else they would have been killed. The prisoners were bound over to keep the peace for 12 months.
"If yo' can guess 'ow many pidguns am in me loft, I'll give yer both on 'em!"
Aynuck and Ayli
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