YOUNG pigeon fanciers in Accrington have snapped up thousands from recent competitions.

Peel Park Primary School became the first in the country to have their own pigeon loft after children were introduced to the hobby by school lollipop man Terry Slattery.

They are now celebrating after winning £5,380 from recent Royal Pigeon Racing Association competions.

The school plans to use the cash to add cameras to the pigeon loft so children can watch the birds and their hatchlings develop from their computer screens.

Plans are also in place to extend the school kitchen with a parents and children’s room after RPRA officials presented the cheque to the school.