A KIDNAPPED champion pigeon was found trying to walk home - just yards from a Nelson loft he left four years ago.

Bluey was making a trip down memory lane when he was spotted by pigeon fancier Frank Nicholson, who had heard of the feathered celebrity's flying exploits.

He discovered the brave bird, who enjoys blue Smarties, was 15 miles from his Skipton owner's home but only yards from where his previous owner kept him.

Owner Dino Reardon reckons the kidnappers have had Bluey fathering a flock of potential champs that could be worth up to £250 each.

He said: "It's a remarkable tale. It's unbelievable really.

"Bluey used to belong to Billy Blackburn, who lived in Nelson until he died in 1991.

"Bluey is really well known in the town. He's bred two champions that were called the Bluey Brothers by Nelson Pigeon Club.

"He was stolen from my loft in September. He'd had his wings cut and there was no way he could have walked back home. I'm amazed he's survived at all."

Mr Nicholson, 60, of Ronaldsway, Nelson, discovered the pooped-out pigeon tottering around near his allotment in Charles Street.

"I just walked up to him and picked him up," said Mr Nicholson.

"Usually they won't let you near them but he never bothered.

"I'd heard of Bluey but I didn't realise it was him.

"He had an address tag so I called up Mr Reardon. He couldn't believe it."

Bluey's adventure did not finish there.

The footloose flutterer has managed to flap his way from his loft and is missing again.

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