The British Poultry Standards book has the complete Standards for all the pure breeds available in the UK and the 6th edition was published in 2008. Light breeds are the best layers, heavy breeds tend to be more docile. Of course, any chickens can be bred from, but it is important to at least maintain, if not improve, the Standardised pure breeds from a conservation point of view.

Current main shows for 2024 are: the Federation Championship Show at Stafford Showground on 21/22 September, entries closed on 30th August. Then the National Championship Show at Lincoln Showground on 19/20 October, entries close on 23rd September.
Most breed clubs attend either or both of these shows. Other show listings can be found on www.poultryclub.org