THE humble homing pigeon has played an important role throughout history, and members of Milford Haven Homing Society are only too happy to tell you about it.

The society was founded at least 100 years ago, and at present the club has 16 members and a diversity of ages, ranging from 30s to over 80.

Offering a wide range of knowledge and experience, the more senior members can even remember sending the pigeons via the railway from Milford Haven to the race points.

Describing pigeon racing as an 'all-inclusive' sport that can be enjoyed by men and women of all ages, thousands of people all over the world take part.

Even The Queen has a loft and races pigeons, and is also the Patron of the Royal Pigeon Racing Association.

During the 19th century commercial firms in Britain were using the pigeon's homing instinct to carry messages as this was the quickest way of communication.

And these birds were also put to good use during both World Wars, with 31 pigeons awarded the Dicken Medal.

The Milford Haven club races between April and July for birds over one year, with the animals travelling distances between 100 and 600 miles.

From the beginning of July until September the young ones race up to 270 miles - a remarkable feat for such small birds.

For more information about keeping pigeons or how you can join Milford Haven Homing Society,visit www.milfordhavenhomingsociety.co.uk.