Having got through a moderately successful National Exhibition at Stafford County Showground, following the waning of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the relaxation of restrictions, we are now hoping that our final show of the year – the Help the Birdkeepers Show, on 5th December, will go ahead in the face of the current outbreak of Avian Influenza around the country! At the time of writing, there are no restrictions on such events in place, but we are keeping an eye on Defra rulings, and will notify any sudden changes on our website. Obviously, there are restrictions on the movement of poultry and waterfowl, and definitely any Galliforme or Anseriforme species will not be allowed at the show. These include: chickens, turkeys, pheasants, quail, guinea fowl, partridge, as well as ducks, geese and swans. Meanwhile, advance booking of tables and wristbands is now available via our office or the Shop on our website. One welcome addition will be the presence of a representative from Defra, who will be able to advise on the changed movement restrictions for birds between Europe and the UK following Brexit.
Once again, a reminder that our AGM will not now be held on November 21st as previously advertised, but will instead take place during the December show at 2 pm. Come along to the Parrot Society stand at that time, if you wish to participate.
As we head towards the end of this year, with its miserable succession of disastrous events and restrictions, our thoughts turn to what hopefully will be a better 2022. We are thinking about a return to all our usual shows and Days Out, with the general possibilities of bird enthusiasts being able to meet up more freely to talk and exchange birds. Our Council meetings at the end of this month and in January will discuss various things in this vein. Again, watch out for notification in the magazine or on the website.
As I write these words, I am enjoying a late holiday in the middle of Bodmin Moor, Cornwall, having had my third Covid vaccination just last week. Moody and atmospheric, but very quiet! Enjoying walking with the dogs, and the company of brother and sister-in-law, log fires and comfortable accommodation. Great for re-charging the batteries and coming back refreshed to think again about those plans for the forthcoming months!