Falling in love with Yorkshires all over again

ROBIN HURWORTH’s return to breeding Yorkshire canaries has been well worth the wait for both Robin and the fancy, writes Steve Dominey

- ROBIN HURWORTH

MANY experienced hobbyists have been lost to the Yorkshire canary fancy over several years now and although there are some new fanciers wanting to commence with the breed, the numbers do not match up. So it is especially pleasing when an experienced fancier decides to return to the Yorkshire canary hobby and, once again, take up the worthwhile challenge of the breed.

Robin Hurworth initially bred Yorkshires in the late 1950s, so his knowledge and expertise make his return to the fancy a welcome one.

Although he decided to call it a day with Yorkshires several years ago, he maintained his connection with the fancy by continuing to breed other varieties of birds, which have always interested him. His last show before taking a break was the Southern Yorkshire CC centenary show in 2004, so many years have passed until his return.

When he first came into the Yorkshire fancy, his initial stock was obtained from one of the leading fanciers of the day, Arthur Lacey, who was based in High Wycombe. Robin soon made progress on the show bench and developed his stud over many years. He was fortunate to be in the Yorkshire fancy at the same time as many great names and, possibly more than anyone else, put himself out to visit the leading breeders all over the country and, indeed, in Europe.

This proved to be educational to Robin and the knowledge that he gleaned in those days remains with him today, as well as the many stories that he accumulated along the way.