Pigeon racer John Hanson and his daughter Susan are flying high after one of their birds may have winged its way into the record books.

Their prize racing pigeon, Hanson's Pride, was released in Bergerac, in the Dordogne region of South West France, to fly back to Mr Hanson's lofts in Keighley.

The two-year-old hen completed the 632 mile journey in one day -- flying at the equivalent of 44 miles an hour non-stop

Mr Hanson, a 43-year-old driver, said: "I'm still on a high. As far as we believe it has never been done before in the day."

The pigeon was competing in the Midlands National Flying Club Bergerac Race and, although she didn't win the race, she finished high up in the pecking order, arriving home in fifth place out of a total of 2,087 birds.

A secret of John's success has been revealed -- jealousy.

Under the system the hen is taken away from the cock for a week. During that time the cock is allowed to look at another hen.

The original hen is then taken to be released in a race.

Describing the bird as an outstanding pigeon, the sports magazine British Homing World report on the race states: "The pigeon arrived with clean feet as though it had never touched the ground since it was liberated.

"She was no doubt anxious to get back to her nest, her cock, the loft and justly reclaim her conjugal rights."

Mr Hanson is now looking forward to the bank holiday on August 6 when one of his racers will be taking part in a one-loft race at York racecourse.

The birds will race from the Knavesmire to Cheltenham Racecourse, which is achieved by each owner donating a chick that is reared in Cheltenham in order that it returns there.

The race has been organised in celebration of the Queen's Golden Jubilee and the release will be televised live on Channel 4.