It may look like any other common young pigeon, but the bird known as GB 02 V 02922 has left even the Queen in her wake.

As part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations pigeon fanciers from all over the country had birds racing in the Royal Pigeon Racing One Loft Race. Back at Christmas the Thirsk North Road Invitation Flying Club decided to form a syndicate for the race

And their efforts have paid off after claiming 29th position out of 957 original entries - leaving the Queen's own bird way behind in 67th position. Club members had been monitored their bird's performance since it started undergoing rigorous training sessions back in July. The pigeon was bred by Francis Reynard of Norby and was only born back in February.

When it was just a few weeks old it went by special courier down to the purpose-built lofts in Cheltenham and as part of the Ebor celebrations at York the birds were brought 150 miles north and liberated on Wednesday lunchtime.

The winner collected prize money of £20,000 with the Thirsk bird came in only 55 seconds behind it _ although it's winnings totalled only £50.*

Anyone interested in finding out more about racing pigeons they should contact the Royal Pigeon Racing Association on (01452) 713529 or visit the website www.pigeonracing.co.uk to find out details of their local club.