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HOBBIES<br />
The Isle of Wight Gun Club, based at the picturesque<br />
shooting ground at Sainham Farm in Godshill, is<br />
always looking for new members.<br />
Established for over 100 years, the club has built up a<br />
large membership ranging in age from nine year-old<br />
beginners right up to shooting veteran Don, their<br />
oldest member at 87 years old.<br />
Children from the age of nine can join the club and<br />
learn the skill of shooting. Contrary to popular belief,<br />
this is not an expensive hobby, which is why people<br />
from all walks of life can be found taking part. Initially<br />
there is no need to purchase a gun, as one will be<br />
provided by the club, along with cartridges. The same<br />
goes for clothing - just turn up sensibly dressed and<br />
start shooting.<br />
Safety is paramount at the club, which is why there<br />
has never been an accident involving a gun in its 100<br />
year-plus history. Chairman Keith Trigg explains: "All<br />
new members are closely supervised at all times, and<br />
are never left unattended with a loaded<br />
gun. However, the club also ensures it<br />
carries adequate insurance for all<br />
eventualities".<br />
Members start shooting right from their<br />
first lesson, so it's exciting for them and<br />
it keeps them interested in the sport.<br />
Later on, they can apply for their own<br />
licence and purchase their own gun. Guns<br />
cost from £350 upwards.<br />
The cost per lesson is £25 for 50 birds<br />
(clays), this also includes cartridges and<br />
the use of a club gun. Alternatively you<br />
can become a member with a fee of £35<br />
per year. Keith says: "The new members<br />
we currently teach love shooting; they<br />
find it exciting, and all the kids we have<br />
taught have come with a responsible<br />
attitude, and the realisation of how<br />
important it is to be sensible when they<br />
are handling a gun".<br />
For a trial lesson, call Keith Trigg on<br />
07885 493341 or visit<br />
www.isleofwightgunclub.co.uk<br />
18<br />
Shoot to thrill!<br />
Above: Fred Salter<br />
Left: Lou Critchley (12)<br />
Bottom: Keith Trigg<br />
www.isleofwightgunclub.co.uk
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