The McDonalds in Abingdon has been given a brand new look. Exactly what it says on the sign.

There was a delay before they were ‘liberated’ in Alencon. A rain belt was obstructing the flight path from France into England.

But at 09.30 on Saturday 16th May 2009 this anxious group in Abingdon got the news…

“We have Lift-Off! Birds liberated at 09.30 in a S.W.Wind. A fast race is expected so be on your guard.”

The first Abingdon pigeon was clocked back at 13.40.

A great effort but it did not win. Those with the wind behind them, all the way to their home, do have an advantage. It’s average speed that matters.

All safe home, and the younger birds are then let out.

The birds fly in large circles, never getting out of sight of the coop, until their need to eat overcomes their desire to fly.

(Thanks to Alan and Jill for letting us watch their birds.)

Artweeks in the South of Oxfordshire runs from 16th to 25th . We visited two venues on the first day. More may well follow.

This is Therese Penny in front of a portrait of her Father. Her works are displayed in a converted Water Tower in Marcham near Abingdon. See Artweeks for the details.

Next we went to All Saints Church, Abingdon – currently celebrating their 50th Anniversary. At one end the Abingdon & District Camera Club has an exhibition.

Elsewhere there were a variety of works – many by church members. Here are sketches done by one member of the Church.

There were also works by various youth groups like this Egyptian Scene…