By Isle of Wight Observer
Over the Easter bank holiday weekend, almost 500 members of scouting organisations from across the country enjoyed a ‘taster’ session at Shanklin Rifle & Pistol Target Shooting Club.
Some scouts, who were aged mainly between 14 and 25, had shot air rifles previously, but most had never shot a cartridge rifle before.
The scouts arrived at the range in groups of up to 40 and, after filling out forms and a safety briefing, they entered the firing point in groups of 10-12. Each student was supervised by a range officer and had 10 rounds to shoot at targets 25 metres (82 feet) distant. All enjoyed the experience, and some scored very well.
The club supplied the range facilities, targets and bolt action and self-loading rifles.
Suitably qualified volunteer members of the club and the local scouting organisation acted as range officers. Newport gun shop, Arnold Heal and Viking Arms supported the event.
Isle of Wight Observer