Cheddar Rifle Club endured a difficult year, which unfortunately ended with the death of one of its prominent members.

CHEDDAR Valley Rifle Club had what can only be described as a poor summer season, which unfortunately ended with the death of one of its prominent members, Trevor Paisey.

Trevor died after a lengthy battle against cancer and will be sorely missed by all members, both club and county, as well as his wife and daughter, Carol and Livi, and son Tom who is following in his father’s footsteps in the shooting world.

Simon Ellis was the club’s only medal winner in the county summer individual competition, finishing third in Division 3.

Cheddar had three entries in the Ulster Counties Postal League, in which Mike Griffin finished in first place in the 50m Division 2 and in first place in 100 yards in Division 2. Ruth Bell finished in second place in 100 yards (Division 3) and Keith Thickett was third in 100 yards (Division 1).

In a lighter vein, a Cheddar team went to Brislington for a friendly rapid fire competition which they lost during an enjoyable evening. The other regular friendly against Midsomer Norton was a success as Cheddar managed to regain the shield.

In the outdoor events, six members entered the SSBSA Major Hutchinson Open. Keith Thickett was second in X Class, Carolyn Olsen first in A Class, Cliff Simmons second in C Class.

In the X&A pairs, Mike and Keith came second and Carolyn and Ruth came third. Mike also came second in the veterans. Carolyn was top Somerset lady and Keith was overall top Somerset shooter.

Following the Major Hutchinson event at Long Ashton, the hard core of shooters moved to the Chippenham 50-metre Open. Five members entered - Keith Thickett was second in Class A, Mike Griffin was third in Class A, Carolyn Olsen was first in Class B and Steve Olsen third in Class C.

Carolyn won the ladies, Mike and Keith won the open pairs, Carolyn and Ruth won the B&C pairs, Cheddar won the team of four and Mike won the veterans.

The indoor winter leagues are well under way and the club hope to have a successful season in both the Somerset Small Bore Association and Bristol and District competitions.

Cheddar Valley Rifle Club is an established and fully approved 0.22 calibre target rifle shooting club with their own 25 yard indoor range in the village. The club welcome new members and all equipment needed is provided. They are open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings, between 7.30-10pm.

For more information about the club and details of membership criteria, please contact the secretary on 01934 518098.