< PreviousAutumn, 1946. Local League Notes Croydon League Trophy Goes to Wallington The revival of the Croydon and Distiict Small-bore Rifle - League was received enthusiastically last winter, and it was p o s s i b l e t o f o r m f o u r d i v i s i o n s . The challenge shield was first competed for in 1909, and was won by Croydon R.C. The annual competition for this hand some trophy culminated in three successive wins by Croydon Postal R.C. during 1911 to 1914, and from that year no further competition was held until it was re-opened by the generous gesture of the Postal Club, who put the shield up again to re form the League, which was organised under the chairmanship of Mr. B. C. Wheeler, of the Wallington British Legion who IS now president. During its first season, 1945-1946, four divisions were formed with 28 teams from 14 clubs, there being several new ones formed by past members of the Home Guard, Civil Defence and works clubs. The top position of the League was very keenly contested between Wallington British Legion A team and Croydon A team, who met in the final round to tie with scores of 489, the former team winning with an aggregate of 5,861 against 5,841. The third and fourth places were taken by Wallington British Legion B (5,786) and Croydon B (5,772). Other leaders were ; Division 2, Acc. and Tab. A ; Division 3, 33rd Surrey Home Guard A ; Division 4, Wallington Home Guard. The best average for the League was achieved by C. Clark of the Wallington British Legion, with 98.83. Those for the rest of the team were : F. L. Yearron, 98.33 ; H. Howson 98.18 ; L. Young, 96.87, and F. Humphreys, 96.33. Entries are now being taken for the 1946-47 winter season and further interest and support is anticipated with the growth of small-bore rifle clubs since the cone usion of the war. Folkestone and Garrison Rifle League At a recent meeting of the Folkestone and Garrison Rifle League it was decided that the Folkestone and District League should be recognised as representing the Garrison League for 1945 and 1946, the trophies to be held by the winners of this year's matches. These trophies include a magnificent one presented to the Folkestone and Garrison League by the late Lord W akefield. The Borough Member (Lt.-Col. H. R. Mackeson) has promised to present the trophies to the wiimers of the divisions, and it is probabla that there may be a display of trophies afterwards. Berkshire County M.R.A. The Berkshire County M.R.A. is being revived and a County self handicap" league is to be formed this season. Affiliated clubs are asked to enter teams of four, and clubs may enter more than one team, the number of divisions of the league being arranged according to the entries received. Entries closed on Monday, 7th October and clubs not affiliated to the County who are interested in the proposal should commumcate with the hon. secretary, Mr. E. A Pudsev- Dawson, 11, Park Crescent, Abingdon. A new feature of the league will be a junior section for competitors under 18 at the time of entering. Northants and Hunts Association. New Northants and Hunts small-bore rifle champion is Mr. A W ' Leadbeater, of 19, Woodfield Grove, Corby. Mr. Leadbeater woii his title recently, when events remaining over from a previous countv prize meeting three weeks ago were shot off" at Corby ranges. The meeting, the first post-war and eleventh annual of the Nor thants and Hunts Association, attracted a record entry of 135 and although shooting conditions were very bad, with a gusty wind the champion scored 585 out of a possible 600. ' D u r h a m M . R . A . The final shoot for the Gateshead Cup, presented by the S.M.R.C. to the Durham M.R.A. for competition among pre-Service units was held at Elmgrove Drill Hall, Gateshead. Results were 1 5th (Gateshead) Cadet Battalion D.L.I. (B Coy) 365 • 2 1507 fChestpr lp » l r . ? r ( i ' K " i J o " ' " i ™ Col. Bald^k, O C, 5th (Gateshead) Cadet Batt., D.L.I., presented the cup and four silver spoons to " B " Coy. 5th (Gateshead) Cadet WALLINGTON BRITISH LEGION RIFLE) CLUB Winners of the Croydon and District Small-bore Rifle League Shield. Back row ; F. L. Yearron, F. Humphreys, H. Howson, L. Young. Sooted : W. C. Cheese (chairman), C. Clark, and B. C. Wheeler (hon. sec.) Batt., D.L.I., and four silver spoons to the runners-upi 1507 Squadron A.T.C., Chester-le-Street. N.W. Surrey S.B. League. A rifle meeting was held for all clubs within the North-West Surrey S.B. League area, on Weybridge range. Eight clubs were represented : Chertsey, Westfield, Chobham, Cobham, Pirbright, Guardians Worplesdon, and Weybridge—with a total of 63 cornpetitors. In dividual and team events were held, all competitors being separated into three classes according to their known merit. Notable prize winners were F. Cornell, L. Gregory and A. Johnson (Cobham), G. Warland and R. Gandon (Weybridge), A. Coxon, R. Brown, T. Cooke and R. Lister (Worplesdon), G. Pulleyn (Chertsey), L. Smith (Mayheld) and H. Caunce (Chobham). The team event was won by Worplesdon, with Weybridge B second and Weybridge A third. The sharpshooter competition, consisting of teams of three shooting discs at 50 yards, which closed the day's shooting, was won by Weybridge A team. This was the largest meeting ever to be held on the Weybridge range, and also the first meeting of its type. West Somerset Rifle League. Friendships forged at the firing point between members of clubs in the West Somerset Miniature Rifle League were recalled when shooting enthusiasts—once described as the lineal descendants of the bowmen of England—had a rendezvous at the Railway Hotel, Wash- ford, on 24th September. The occasion was the presentation of trophies, with which were combined a festive atmosphere and the opportunity for a " stock-taking " of the first post-war competition year. All the clubs in the League were represented among the large number who sat down to coffee and refreshments, the League chair man, Mr. W. B. Kille, Minehead, presiding, supported by Mr. F. N. Cox and Messrs. W. C. Howell and R. G. Cox (joint hon. secretaries). Major A. M. Hutchinson, and Mr. E. C. Gooding. Behind them stood an imposing array of silver trophies. Old Cleeve members WWW.RIFLEMAN.ORG.UKAutumn, 1946. T H E R I F L E M A N t 45 having emerged as the post-war giants of shooting, were naturally looking very pleased, but the Chairman in calling upon Mr. Howell (himself an Old Cleeve member and a most energetic secretary of the League) to review the season, gave a jocular assurance that in the coming winter the other clubs would see to the removal of part at any rate of the Old Cleeve smile. Recalling that it was a matter for satisfaction that all the winter and summer competitions had been carried through, and that the o n l y d i s a p p o i n t m e n t w a s t h e w i t h d r a w a l o f M i n e h e a d A . T. C . c l u b through lack of members, Mr. Howell added that at the beginning the standard of shooting was not up to that of pre-war, but it improved as the season wore on. This was indicated by figures which he gave a s f o l l o w s : — League table S.W. L.T.p. Old Cleeve A 10 91018 Williton107 ■ 3 0 14 Dunstcr 10 54111 Police 105 5 0 10 Old Cleeve B10 4 ■ 5 19 Bicknoller 10 0100 0 In conclusion, Mr. Howell paid a tribute to the work of his secre tarial colleague, Mr. R. G. Co.x, to whose efforts, he declared, the revival of the League had been due. Mr. R. G. Cox made an announcement which was received with applause when he intimated that through Mr. E. R. Holdsworth, an active member of the Williton club in pre-war days. Major Gerald Wills, prospective Conservative candidate for the Bridgwater Division, had expressed his willingness to add a cup to the League " sideboard." On top of this pleasing announcement came the exhibition of the handsome new cup which Aiming Countess of Carnarvon has kindly presented, and on behalf of the assembly Mr. Howell expressed the gratitude felt for both generous gestures. Maidstone M.R.A. The first general meeting to be held since before the war was held mid-September at the Maidstone Church Institute and Y.M.C.A. There was a good attendance and the prospects for the coming season are good. In addition to club competitions teams will be competing in the West Kent League and the Maidstone League (which is re starting again). The accounts of the Association were presented by the Treasurer and shown to be in a sound position. Lt.-Col. Sir Albert Stern, K.B.E., C.M.G., was re-elected president. The vice-presidents were also re-elected as pre-war, subject to their acceptance. Chaitman, Mr. O. R. Howard ; hon. secretary and treasurer, Mr. E. A. Gates ; hon. asst. secretary, Mr. F. L. Usher ; committee, Messrs. A. Long, C. H. Hodges, A. W. Weeks, J. H. Eraser, G. Mitchell, E. H. M. Sargeant and W. Money ; hon. auditors, Messrs. R. S. Blake and H. R. Saltmarsh. The Kent Bronze Cross was awarded to F. L. Usher for the highest average in the West Kent League matches. In view of the fact that the hon. secretary and treasurer, Mr. E. A. Gates, has held this position for 21 years he was asked to become a vice-president, but will still carry out the secretarial duties. York and District League. Interest in rifle shooting in the York district has greatly increased in recent months, due to the activities of Home Guard Old Comrades' Associations. An appeal for more competitive events made recently at the Stockton-on-Forest Home Guard dinner has brought an interesting letter to Major F. R. Widdicombe from Mr. Alfred Forster, of 83, Stockton-lane, York, who rather more than 30 years ago, was secretary of the York and District Miniature Rifle League. Mr. Forster still has in his possession the League's Silver Challenge Shield and he is willing to hand the trophy over if the League can be revived. Major Widdicombe has rephed to Mr. Forster and the matter is now being discussed. Before the 1914-18 war, says Mr. Forster in his letter, miniature rifle clubs in York and district included York City, Heworth, Malton, Sand Hutton, Strensall and the L.N.E.R. Most had both indoor s i x - m i l e a n d o u t d o o r r a n g e s . Cheshire County S.B.R.A. The 21st annual prize meeting was held on 31st August at Appleton, w i t h a r e c o r d n u m b e r o f e n t r i e s . T h e w e a t h e r f o r o n c e w a s u n k i n d and we got off to a late start and were unable to make up the lost time. The Harbottle (a disc breaking competition) the final event, was shot in semi-darkness. Apart from the usual trophies, the prize list totalled over £30 in cash and kind. Credit is due to the H.G. members, who used rifles on loan from t h e Wa r O f fi c e a n d c o m p e t e d o n l e v e l t e r m s w i t h t h e " e x p e r t s . " Next year we intend to have a special prize list for competitors who use such rifles. The meeting was a triumph for Mr. Richman, of Linotype, who at his first appearance won Competition 1, the County Siher Medal and the Tyros, also appearing in othei prize lists. Thanks are due to the Appleton Club for use of their range, the help their members gave, also Lino and Castner Kellner, whose mem bers assisted in the squndding, and Mr. P. Day who carried out his d u t i e s a s S . O . u n t i l f a d i n g l i g h t b e a t h i m . W e d o n o t f o r g e t t h e Army Cadets who acted as target runners all through the meeting, wet but cheerful. Principal results herewith :— Competition 1.—Richman, Lino, 100 ; Reddy, Wallasey, 99 ; Kite, Ap&leton, 99. Competition 2.—Goodwin, Birkonian, 9S ; Monk, Birkonian, 9S ; Brookes, Halton. 98. Competition 3.—McKinnel, Lino, 98 : Weston, Halton, 98 ; Richman, Lino, 96. Competition 4.—Brookes, Halton. 292 ; McKinnell, Lino, 291. Competition 5.—Brookes, 196 ; Woodier, 195. Egerton.—Linotype, 378 ; Birkonian, 373. Harbottle.—Haiton, 17th Cheshire H.G. County Silver Medal.—Richman, Linotype. W. R o a c h , H o n . S e c r e t a r y. Lanarkshire R.A. The final league tables are :— DIVISION 1. S. W.D. L.P. Agg. Etna Home Guard ...1615 1031 7756 Motherwell L.M.S. A 161303267724 Lan. Steel W orks 15 11 1 224 7243 Motherwell Civs. • 1 5 90 6 187230 L a n a r k E . S . M . A 168 17177695 Dalzell W orks166 1 913 7581 . Motherwell U.S. 16 411197448 Lan. T raction Co. ... ... . ... 16 1 0 152 7464 Bellshill British Legion ... ... 16 10 15 2 7206 DIVISION 2. S. W. D. L. P.Agg. Wishaw E.S.M 109 10 19 4822 North Motherwell1070314 4779 L a n a r k E . S . M . B10 6 04 124740 Motherwell L.M.S. 105 1411 4687 Hamilton Home Guard 10 2 0 8 4 4565 Larkhall Home Guard10001004138 West Essex and District Rifle League. Final positions for season, 1945-6 :— DIVISION 1. S. W . D. L. P. Av e r . Chingford 14 1310 27 8048 7582 H.G.. N. Ilford 14 1 12 124 80547691 H . G . W h i p p s X 14 8 15177802 7739 54th W ardenhurst14 8 0 616 7874 7744 50-Fivers14 8 0 6 16 7727 7761 35. Wan. and Leyton14 4 0108 77147728 8th Colchester 14 1 013 273957809 H a c k n e y L e a B r d g . 14 1013 .2 71897749 DIVISION 2. S. W .D.L.P.Av e r . Chingford H.G. 8 7 01 14 4415 41 12 N. Ilford8 602 12 43634163 35th Wan. and Leyton 8 5 031043134229 W h i p p s X 8 206442254131 Lea Brdg. H.G8 0 080 36764357 Maryport District Rifle League. Mr. J. Goodfellow presided at the annual meeting and presented the prizes for the year'. These were won by J. Moffat's team'(League Championship Cup), Prospect (runners-up) ; Mr. G. Sewell (Good- fellow's team) with the best individual league average (72.17) ; and Mr. D. Colman (Moffat's), individual challenge championship. Mr. J. Banks presided at the election of officers which resulted : Chairman, Mr. J. Moffat; secretary, Mr. J. McCracken ; treasurer, Mr. W. H. Hunter ; committee, Messrs. A. W. Hills, J. Dixon, J. Moore and J. Sewell. It was stated that the League began with nothing and had finished with a balance in hand of 8s. 4d. against which there was one out standing account of 6s. and they also had 700 rounds of ammunition, enough to shoot four- matches. Ammunition was the principal expense. There was a discussion on lengthening the range from 15 to 25 yards, but it was eventually decided to leave it to the Executive Com mittee. It was agreed that monthly competitions be held with the object of selecting the best team from all League sides to represent the area. WWW.RIFLEMAN.ORG.UK46 T H E R I F L E M A Nautumn, 1946, Portsmouth and District Rifle League, The City R.C. are to be congratulated on securing first place in the First Division for the second year running and also for leading in the Second Division, in which, however, Wickham ran them very close. In the Third Division the Transport team put up a very fine show, securing first place without losing a match. P. Qover (City Police) has again won the individual championship, w i t h t h e r e c o r d a v e r a g e o f 9 9 . 6 7 p e r c e n t . In the Second Division, T. Tappenden (Wickham) leads the field with an average of 97.8 per cent, and in the Third Division the laurels go to a lady, Mrs. L. Griffiths (Transport), average 95.17 per cent. The following comprise all the averages of 98 per cent and over : P. Clover (City Police), 99.67 ; D. Foster (City), 98.73 ; F. Middleton (City), 98.73 ; V. Dewell (City), 98.67 ; F. Short (City), 98.67 ; Miss M. Hart (City Police), 98.53 ; S. Weston (City Police), 98.53 ; S. Colla- cott (Fareham), 98.47; R. Bugg (City Police), 98.4; G. Davis (Gas Co.), 98.33 ; K. Lilly (Gas Co.), 98.27 ; Tomlins (Excellent), 98.2 ; Fleet (Excellent), 98.13 ; Holdaway (Fareham), 98. The final of the Lord Lee Cup produced a very close match between Gas Co. and City, the Gas Co. winning 779 to 778. In the final for the Woolgar Cup, Wickham were successful, beating T he Ci t y b y 7 6 9 to 757. For the final of the Duttson Cup the Police team have still to meet the City. F i n a l t a b l e s : — DIVISION 1. City Police Excellent F a r e h a m . . . G a s C o . . . . Tr a n s p o r t . . . Post Office ... Southern Railway V i c t o r y . . . . . . R o y a l M a r i n e s y . Possibles were scored by P. Clc Marines), S. Collacott (Fareham). City Wickham Excellent ... G a s C o . . . . Havant ... Ve r n o n Civil Defence Cotmaught Fareham Post Office s.W.D. L. P. Agg. 18 16 1133 10.607 1815123110.597 1813 14 2710.532 IS 10 8 2010.497 IS 9918 10.491 18 7 1 1015 10.459 18 71114 10.413 18 711 1410.383 18 4148 10.347 18117 210.369 Possibles were scored by L. Buckett (City). Tr a n s p o r t 31st H.G. nth H.G. Southdown Wa t e r l o o v i l l e Southern Railway Purbrook 103rd H.G. S. Weston (Police), Q.M .SX Nurse (Royal HON 2. S. W.D.L.P. Agg. 18 16 232 10.484 1816 232 10.462 18 11 _ 722 10.302 18 10 8 2010.320 18 10 8 2010.301 18 71114 10.203 18711 1410.167 18 6 1212 10.003 185 11211 10.204 IS 11 16310.092 (City). ION 3. S.W. D. L. P.Agg. 14 14 287966 148 6 167826 14 86167816 14 8 6 167778 147 7147748 14 6 812 7469 1459 10 7658 14 - 1407013 Southampton and District Rifle League. Home Guard rifle clubs who comprised the second division put up a nignly creditable show with the W.O. issued weapon in the season just concluded. The Solent club, who were members of the 14th Fareham Batt., won the championship with an average of 459.3 (h.p. 5(X)) for 16 matches. Highfield, formerly members of the 12th Southampton Batt., were runners-up with an average of 454.37. Mr. R. A. S. Homer had the best individual average of the competition—94.18 for 16 matches. Chandler's Ford were third with 452.37, and A Company team of 4th Southern Railway unit were fourth with 437.62. ^ Southampton Rifle League wound up the winter session at the S.R. Works, Eastleigh, in splendid style. In the Champions versus Rest of League matches, the S.R., Eastleigh, A team defeated The Rest by eight points, wMle the Solent (formerly members of the 14th Batt., Hampshire H^.) were beaten by a team chosen from other teams m the Home Guard division by a margin of seven. After the contests, the chairman of the League (Mr. H. M. Reed) congTatulated the winners and handed the Macnaghten Shield to and the Bitley " Souvenir to Mr. O. laylor, who led the Solent team in their winning career. Tributes were also paid to Miss V. Cooke and Mr. H. Long, hon. secretary officer respectively, for their splendid services rendered local riflemen durmg a difficult but very successful season. Final league table S.R., East, A Curdridge S.R., East, B Alexandra Swanmore S.R.. East, C B. W al. A.C.F . DIVISION 1. S.W.D.L. P. 1211 0 1 22 12 1002 20 127 1 4 15 1261513 12 4 08 8 12 309 6 120 012 0 Av e r . 483.5 482.0 473.75 477.0 466.25 464.66 440.44 The final computation of individual averages show that Mr. H. E. Long, of Curdridge, holds a lead in the competition for the Mourant Cup. Mr. J. C. Palmer, of S.R., Eastleigh, winner of the trophy in the 1938-39 season, is at the moment holding second place. It is unlikely that these splendid achievements will be beaten upon the computation of the averages of those firers in the second division. Cambridge S.B. League. Final tables of the above league are now to hand and Marfly A (Division I) and D Coy. Old Comrades B (Division III), whose suc cesses have already been announced, are joined as leaders by 5th Bn. Home Guard C, who top Division II. During the season 221 marksmen took part. Thirty-one possibles were scored and 99 was shot 67 times, S. Becbe (Shelford Home Guard) had the remarkable average of 99.5 and dropped only 6 points out of I,400. Close second was Vincent (Marfly) who averaged 99.2. Griffin (5th Bn. Home Guard County Captain) was third with aii average of 98.6. DIVISION I. M a r fl y A 5th Bn. H.G.A..A ... Special Police D C o y. , O . C . A C C o y. , 6 t h B n . H . G . A 5th Bn. H.G. B T h e G a s C o . M a r fl y B 5th Bn. H.G. C F C o y. , S h e l f o r d . A Cam. 101 H.G. .A . Borough Police A . 7th Bn. H.G. C a m . 1 0 1 H . G . B . Borough Police B M a r fl y C D C o y. O . C . B 5 t h B n . ( S a d e t s B C h i v e r s R . C . 5 t h B n . C a d e t s A . . . C C o y. , 6 t h B n . H . G . B F C o y. , S h e l f o r d H . G . B Cam. 101 H.G. C ... S. W.D.L. P.Agg. 141202 24 6817 1410 2 2 226759 1410 0 4 20 6716 1492 3 20 6694 14 608 12 6610 143011 6 6385 14 2012 46046 14 20 12 4 5200 N 2 . S. W.D. L. P. Agg. 14120224 5347 14102 222 5363 149 2 3 205368 14725 16 5336 148 0616 4937 144010 85222 142 012 4 4986 141013 22583 N 3 . • S.W.D.L.P. ^lli 131201 24 13 814 17 4448 13 72 4 16 4820 1370 6 14 4390 1351711 4761 13 409 8 4709 13409 84331 Wellingborough and District M.R.C. League. Fomed in October of last year, Wellingborough and District M.R.C. League now comprises eleven clubs, who each, have a mem bership of about 40. One unique feature of the competition is that ladies are members of several of the clubs. How is it the ladies have taken an interest in shooting ? we asked, and sora found that most of them were previously members of th(3 Home Guard Auxiliary, in which they were trained to use the rifle. Ihey apparently became so fascinated they have kept up their interest TK when the Home Guard stood down. The clubs were all started just over a year ago. The president of Jones^^^"^ is Major W. G. Gilbey and the secretary Major G. .M. n?^Jority of members are ex-Home Guardsmen and conse- • fluently they are very enthusiastic. Team average scores have in creased from eight per cent when the clubs first started to 20 per cent at the present time. ir league at the moment is Eeton R.C., which has won all Its 20 matches. • the highest team average in the league. An excellent '■foge in the grounds of Ecton Hall has been constructed. XX president is Lieut.-Col. H. G. Sotheby, D.S.O., and the secretary Mr . A. E. Barker . Great Harrowden has the best open range in the district in the pounds of Harrowden Hail. Members are all keen and practise at least twice a week. Major Gilbey is the president and Mr. F. Gardiner, oi Iteham, secretary. The club has a team of eight women, but so far they have not taKen part m any competition shooting. WWW.RIFLEMAN.ORG.UKAutumn, 1946. T H E R I F L E M A N 47 Sussex County League. Eighty teams are entered for the Sussex County League, and ■SVorthing and district provide 12 of them. The local teams are : Chatsworth A (Division 1), Southdown Lancing H.G. (Division 2), West Tarring (Division 5), Chatsworth B (Division 6), " A " Coy. 5th H.G., East Worthing and Worthing High School (Division 7), Lancing (Division 8), Worthing Ladies (Division 9) and Venadven and Worthing Railwaymen (Division 10). M. Cox, F. E. Long, H. E. Walker, Mrs. Walker, P. Tong and A. g. Brown (reserve) have been chosen for the Sussex team in the County and B.S.A. competitions. Worthing beat Petworth by 33 shots, at Petworth recently, in a 15-a-side shoot over 25, 50 and 100 yards ranges. Shropshire M.R.A, Mr. H. W. Dipple, 50, Whitburn Street, Bridgnorth, hon. secretary of the Shropshire M.R.A.,\Vill be glad to hear from clubs wishing to join the league competition which will commence'at the end of October. Eight clubs have already joined, At the annual meeting of the Association held at the offices of the Shrewsbury Chronicle recently Capt. E. Wilson, who presided, preserved the league cup to Bridg north, the champions ; the county medal to Mr. J. M. Dixon, of the Wellington club, and the Chronicle medal for the best league aggregate to Mr. H. W. Dipple, of Bridgnorth club. A team will be entered for the S.M.R.C. county knockout competition. presentation of the " Daily Record" Challenge Bowl S . M . R C . S H O R T R A N G E C H A M P I O N S H I P O F S C O T L A N D For the second time in his 25 years' shooting career, Colin M'Tavish, of the Bonaccord Small-bore R.C., was presented with the Daily Record Dragon Bowl for the Short Range individual championship of Scotland at a social function in the Royal Hotel in June. Mr. F. Craigmile, senr., chairman of the Bonaccord Club, presided over a large company, and the presentation was made by Mr. Wm. D. Findlay, member of the Council of the Society of Miniature Rifle Clubs. Mr. Craigmile paid high tribute to " Colin's " abilities as a rifle shot and one who had the interests of his club at heart. Mr. Findlay in presenting the trophy, outlined Mr. M'Tavish's shooting history, which included maiiy individual and team achievements. One honour had so far eluded Mr. M'Tavish and that was the open meeting small-bore championship of Scotland, but as this would be competed for at Edinbur^, Mr. Findlay hoped that the trophy would be brought back to Aberdeen. Mr. M'Tavish suitably replied. On behalf of the local Association Mr. A. G. Milne (president) offered his congratulations. Mr. J. M'Queen, hon. president of the Bonaccord Club, on behalf of the members then presented the champion with a handsome wristlet watch as a mementp of the occasion. The Electric Concert Party, with Sheila Hardie (soprano) and Thos. Clarkson (tenor) delighted the company during the rest of the evening Devon County Meeting. STAR CROSS, SATURDAY, 24th AUGUST. 1946. L e a d i n g r e s u l t s : — Ladies' Championship.—1 Mrs. Howe-Haysom, Exmouth (silver trophy and 10s.), 196 ; 2 Miss Edwards, Newton Town (5s.), 194 ; 3 Mrs. W. F. Youings, Barn- ^'"'''indivWual^Competition. 25 yards.—1 H. Foot, Stuart Road (£1), 100.8 ; 2 L. Wood, Honiton (lOs.), 100.6 ; 3 C. Axon, Exmouth (5s.), 99.5. 50 yards.—1 N. Miller, Sidmouth (£1), 100; 2 G. Langdon, Exmouth (10s.), 99.5 ; 3 M. E. Denner, Sidbury (5s.), 99.3. 100 yards.^—1 G. Langdon, Exmouth (£1), 99 ; 2 N. Miller, Sidmouth (10s.), 98 ; 3 Mrs. H. F. Youings, Barnstaple C.C. (5s.), 97.3; T. J. Kennar, Dartmouth Wing ^^^^'(^ampionship of Devon.—t G. Langdon, Exmouth (silver challenge cup and championship medal and £I lOs.), 297; 2 N. Miller, Sidmouth (H), 295 ; 3 J. Kennar, Dartmouth Wing (lOs.), 294 ; 4 M. E Denner, Sidbury (5s.), 293 ; 5 H. Foot, Stuart Road (5s.), 292 ; 6 C. J. Hatchings, Silverton (5s.), 290 ; 7 F/Lt. Bennett, R.A.F. (5s.), 288 (96 at 100) • Miss Edwards, Newton Town, 288 (94 at 100) ; C. Postlewaite, Stuart Road. 288 (93 at 100) ; L. Wood, Honiton 288 (92 at 100). Novices' Competition.—1 F/Sgt. H. Dodge, R.A.F. (silver challenge cup and 10s.), 191 ; 2 F. Matthews, Newton Town (7s. 6d.), 189 ; 3 A. J. Waimell, Exmouth (5s.),^18L —J South Molton S.C. (15s.), 1,128 ; 2 Newton Town (10s.). 1,122 ; 3 Torridge (5s.), 1,107. Sharpshooters.—Winners, Royal Ait Force Mount Wise (15s.) ; runners-up, Newton Town (7s. 6d.). Unlimited entry events omitted. Our Bulls-eyes " A R G U S " I N T H E D U B L I N E y E N I N G H E R A L D It seems that we have scored a bulls-eye—two bulls-eyes, as a matter of fact—in our new title piece. - Before the artist bloke gets all bucked-up by the news and puts in for another increase of salary, let me hasten to add that he has merely succeeded in arousing in the breasts of members of the City of Dublin Miniature Rifle Club an aching memorv of the days that were. The President of the Club, Mr. Kevin G. Walsh, P.C., writes :— " The second letter in both ' Town' and ' Topics ' reminds me forcibly of the bulls-eye at which we used to shoot. I say ' used to shoot,' because for some years back we have been unable to obtain the necessary .22 ammunition." He encloses one of the standard 25 yards targets so that I can see the resemblance. It would be a distinct pity, I think, if the Qub, which was estab lished ten years ago, were to remain inoperative for lack of ammunition, now that the emergency is past. I was talking about the Tricolour. Well, this Club was the first to hoist the National Flag at Bisley. That was when the members r e p r e s e n t e d u s i n t h e i n t e r n a t i o n a l c o m p e t i t i o n s o f 1 9 3 7 . The Club forms a link with the now famous Banba Rifle Club of 1907, and the Irish Volunteers of 1914. In the early days of the L.S.F. (before the L.D.F.) it provided training facilities for thousands of our citizen-soldiers, and all the Club members placed their services at the disposal of the authorities ungrudgingly. By the way, what about women rifle .shots ? We don't seem to have any Irish organisation for them, but in other countries the ladies take a very active interest in this sport, and I have seen an affiliation form from the Women's Rifle Association which was hopefully despatched to Mr. Walsh's Club as a result of its continued affiliation with the S.M.R.C. Possibly there are some men who might consider that women should not be encouraged to shoot—men whose theme song is " Lay that pistol down. Babe "—but I think we could risk it, first making it clear to them that they must not go gunning for us promiscuously. At any rate, I cannot see why the City of Dublin M.R.C. should still be deprived of ammunition when much less worthy bodies seem to be able to obtain all they require. Following the above-issued in the Press of Eire, the Secretary of the S.M.R.C. has had a week's holiday at the end of September in Dublin and district) He was interviewed by " Tatler " of the Irish Independent, which paper kindly issued a commendation on the comradeship to be gained in the recreation of small-bore rifle shooting, urging clubs to be formed in Eire. Luckily, with the cessation of mercantile labour troubles, the S.M.R.C. has since succeeded in getting .22 ammunition to the Dublin City R.C. on an English B.O.'T.- licence and at present there appears to be no reason why similar e x p o r t s s h o u l d n o t f o l l o w. He was also able to visit the indoor and outdoor ranges of the club at Drimnach House, InchicOre, so kindly provided by a Vice- President of the Club, Mr. G. P. Fleming. This Scottish gentleman, now over 70 years of age, was well-known as a .22 marksman of international standard in Lord Roberts's days of pre-1910, and he has reminiscences of Scottish matches and open meetings before the duplicate target system of checking the inadvertent shots fired on another competitor's card was used, and when h was more intentional" than accidental as at that time the statistical officer could only count the 10 lowest shots received on a competitor's card. To some of our older members who will remember the days and the " big Scot " at the meetings of the Society (he is over six feet tall and broad in proportion) it will be good news to know that Mr. George Fleming, although in Ireland for many yems, ^ill keeps S.M.R.C. cards of his best possible scores at his home. The Grange, Monkstown. Besides this stalwart the club has anoffier in Mr. Kevin G. Walsh, its President, of "St. Ritas," 17, Fortfield Drive, Terenure, Dublin. His unceasing efforts to keep the club in being over the last seven years after bringing a team to the National Small-bore Meeting in 1937 and 1938, so enabling Ireland to be represented in the Home Countries International Team Match, will be well remembered by our own members of international standard. Backing these efforts there is the club's statistical officer, Capt. Boys, in whose possession neat records of the club's advancement in shooting skill are treasured, together with some well arranged trophies and badges won. Then there are Messrs. Dcnnott Walsh, hon. treasurer, and Messrs. Supt. Stapleton. N. B. and P. C. Folan with a number of old members and some ladies all wanting to shoot under the old club s nag. This is the club we hope will be saved, aitd thus lorm the nucleus for many others in Eire. WWW.RIFLEMAN.ORG.UK48 T H E R I F L E M A N Autumn, 1946. The Lady Mitchel Cup of the Air Training Corps was competed for at the Bishopsgate Range of the City Police and was won by the holders, the late 21st F Lewisham Squadron, now the 1921 Squadron of the 65 (London Reserve) Group, R.A.F., who scored 635, closely followed by 691 (Owen School) with a score of 631 ; 1238 (Greenwich) being third with 625. Air Cmdr. E. D. H. Davies, C.B.E., was present and warmly congratulated the winners and thanked the City Police for the use of the range and the trouble they had taken scoring the cards. Winners' scores : Cdt. Wright 168, Cdt. Baddock 161, Cpl. Reeves 154, Cpl. Cornfield 635. We also congratulate their musketry m s t r u c t o r , M r . F r a n k S . S l a t e r . » » » The Wateringbury and Teston H.G. R.C. with headquarters at the Old King's Head, Wateringbury, has constructed a .22 indoor ininiature rifle range which was officially opened by the president. Sir Albert Stern, K.B.E., C.M.G.,on Friday, 21st June ; the President fired the first shot scoring a near bull, the dead-eye Dick competition was won by C. S. Young of East Peckham with Leslie King of Water ingbury a close second. Mr. Charles Aslett, the hon. secretary, hopes the club will go ahead with the construction of a 25 yards out door range in lovely surroundings in the park at Barham Court, Teston, where the President has kindly offered a site. The President has very kindly promised to present the club with a new Match rifle as soon as the same can be procured. Membership is at present 52, and it is hoped to reach the 100 mark by the end of the year. Weekly competitions are already in progress, the weapons on loan from the Territorial Association are a very poor lot and one is obliged to say that it is the reason rifle clubs are not making the headway they would ; let's all worry our M.P.s until the position is remedied. * # « The Penzance .22 Rifle League will run a Points League again this winter. The League will be open to all clubs and units affiliated to the S.M.R.C. with headquarters in the area of the Lands End R.A. (i.e., the 12th Cornwall (Lands End) Battalion Home Guard aiea). Shooting commenced early in September. It will be necessary to shoot a match every 10-14 days depending on the number of entries which should be sent to Mr. J. F. W. Bennett, hon. secretary, 12, North Parade, Penzance. Four of the Worplesdon members participated in the Herts County meeting on Sunday, 7th July, at the S.T.C. ranges. It was their first visit and a splendid time they had. They wish to bring to our notice what a beautifully organised and successful meeting it was and the officials of that county are to be congratulated on the efficient way everything was conducted. Tney have reason to feel very proud of themselves on prizes won and the many more friends their club has acquired through the visit. * * H.M.S. Solebay was anchored in Bridlington Bay for five days. Various games were arranged for the crew during their stay at Biid- ^ shooting match with the Bridlington M.R.C. on the evening of Wednesday, 31st July, 1946. Lieut. Mac- Ardle with Lieut. Southworth were in charge of the sailors. Mr. A. D. Sinclair, the Bridlington Club secretary, in the unavoidable absence of the chairman of the club, Mr. T. M. Needham, was in cliarge of the Bridlington Club. A very enjoyable evening was spent with the result that Bridlington won by 75 points. * * * The West Kent .22 Rifle League held a very successful prize shoot on 3rd August, which they opened to all Kentish riflemen. When it was decided to hold such a meeting the organisers had some difficulty m finding a suitable range, for during the war the ranges previously u^d had b^n abolished. However, the offer of the range of the JNew Northfleet Paper Mills R.C. having been received it was accepted provided the accommodation could be increased. Owing to the very Icind help of the Paper Mills manager, Mr. Lund, and the enthusiastic co-operation and work of the R.C. members, in the available three weeks the accommodation was trebled, so that there is now accom modation for 24 competitors, eight at each range. The firing points are permanent and very comfortable, and it is hoped to further improve them. The programme was more or less as usual, but all the squadded events could be shot concurrently, so that what looked a long affair was got through between 1 p.m. and dusk. There was a team-shoot for clubs in the league which was won by the Dartford and H.G. R.C., who were the champions of last winter's competition. The disc breaking shoot was won by Tonbridge, who in the final round broke all their discs before the runners-up, Maidstone, had hit one. The championship of the meeting was won by M. Chitty of the Dartford Club, and took the medal presented by the S.M.R.C. During a half-hour's interval, the competitors enjoyed an excellent high-tea generously given in the works canteen by Mr. Lund. Altogether most of the competitors said they had thoroughly enjoyed the day, and hoped it would be an annual event. There were upwards of 50 competitors, eight clubs were represented in the prize lists, and the entrance fees practically balanced the expenses. Most of the arrangements were made by the League's hard-working hon. assist, ^cretary, Mr. W. H. Bailey, in conjunction with the Paper Mills R.C. to whom, and to Mr. Lund, the competitors' thanks are due. Thanks must also be extended to Mr. C. F. H. Bayly (King's prize) who did excellent work in presiding over the ranges. * * i t f r Huntley and Palmers' R.C. started the year with a membership of 37 and two teams of five entered in the S.M.R.C. leagues, whose final positions were seventh and tenth. Noteworthy points of progress are that the club championship for the Bennet Palmer Trophy \yas competed for under the same conditions as the previous year, the winner being Mr. G. E. Wicks, Mr. J. W. Thistlewood receiving the prize for the runner-up. The first and second Self Handicap prizes were won by Mr. W. Wise and Miss M. L. Lockwood. In July, due to the increased membership, the secretary was instructed to approach the Recreation Club for the provision of a fourth firing point. Dr. R. T. Colgate received the suggestion with consideration and approached the Directors with a view to an extension, and due to their generosity they have been provided with an extension making points in all, with new butts, complete new lighting system' to the targets and a target frame bringing the targets from the butts to the firing point with speed and safety. The extension was opened by the president of the Recreation Club on 2nd October, 1945, when he presented the Bennet Palmer Trophy, the Press taking photographs m m® range and the ladies' team—winners of the 71st Division of the a.M.R.C. 1944 Winter League. A successful internal league competi tion was run during the winter with the Howard Palmer Shield as the trophy won by General Office A team. The competition started with 24 teams and 16 completed the full number of matches. The mam reason for teams dropping out seems to have been due to some departments entering too many teams without adequate reserves. One of the three teams entered in the S.M.R.C. Industrial League s^ucceeded in winning their division, although none of the team had hred m this class of competition previously. They received silver medals as prizes. Two teams entered for the Winter League and obtained sixth place for the men's team, and sixth position for the ladies team. The ever-popular Christmas shoot attracted an entry ot 94 competitors of which 37 received prizes. Shoulder-to-shoulder rnatches with other clubs have been very popular and some very keen rivalry has been shown. Out of a total of 12 matches fired during the season seven have resulted in wins for the club. Three club members have received S.M.R.C. Marksman Badges during the ^ason : Messrs. A. Taylor and G. E. Wicks succeeded in the " A " Class and Mr. R. Sweetzer in the " B " Class. Two other members— Messrs. A. Mowles and G. E. Smith—have qualified for Class " A." At the close of the season the club has 169 members. Mr. A. Taylor, hon. secretary, and the committee are thanked for their good work. WWW.RIFLEMAN.ORG.UKAutumn, 1946. 49 At the annual general meeting of the Rochdale R.C. held at the range on Friday, 5th July, 1946, the retiring captain, Mr. B. W. Morti mer, in reviewing the past 12 months, said how pleased he was with the progress which the Club had made. The financial position was sound, the Bank Account showing a credit of over £237. This had been achieved by the enthusiasm and support which the Club had r e c e i v e d f r o m i t s m e m b e r s . T h e s t a n d a r d o f s h o o t i n g h a d ( b e e n progressively good and the improvement in past years had been. maintained. The A team had finished as runners-up in the seventh d i v i s i o n o f t h e S . M . R . C . W i n t e r L e a g u e a n d h a d , f o r t h e t h i r d s u c cessive season, won the first division of the Rochdale and District S.B. League, which carries with it the " Duckworth " Trophy. The Club has also done well in the annual open meeting held at Norden last summer, winning the " Major Rigg " Trophy and several in dividual prizes. However, without any doubt whatsoever, the most outstanding record of progress during the year was that made by the lady members'. This was truly remarkable for in their first season as a ladies' team they finished first in the second division of the Roch dale and District S.B. League,-carrying off the " Bateson " Trophy. This entailed a certain amount of fratricidal strife, in that they met the C team in the course of the league and defeated them, the men's team showing no chivalry whatever and doing their best to stay their club- mates' progress. The members of this team were Mesdames Cromp- ton (captain), Kay, Lord, Mortimer and Turnbull. All praise was due to them for a very fine effort. The thanks of all the club is also due to these and the other lady members for the way in which they had managed the catering during the year. One of the features of the year was the visit of a large party of members to the outdoor range of the Lydgate Club on Saddleworth Moor. A most enjoyable and interesting day out resulted, especially as the visitors managed to beat their hosts by a narrow margin at 25, 50 and 100 yards. A visit was also paid to the newly-formed club at Bacup and again a good time was enjoyed by all. A feature of the season was the intro duction of a Pairs League for club members. This had aroused great interest and enthusiasm. Members were paired according to handicap and the results showed how carefully the handicapping had been arranged. Each pair met every other pair in the club and the final aggregates showed very little difference between the highest and lowest scores. Mr. Mortimer then expressed his thanks to all mem bers and particularly to the retiring secretary, Mr. Arthur Dyson, for the help and support which they had given him during the past' 12 months. He then proposed Mr. Clifford Stott as captain for the ensuing year. This was seconded and carried with acclamation. Mr. Stott then took the chair and Mr. T. Piatt was unanimously elected vice-captain. It was decided to support the Lanes. County Association, S.M.R.C., Rochdale and District League and other competitions to the limit of the Club's resources. After the transac tion of some formal business and with all members looking forward to a successful year under Mr. Stott's captaincy the meeting adjourned. * • At the Lincoln S.B.R.A. prize distribution. President T. Cook sent a letter of regret that he could not attend, and his place was taken by 'Vice-President Mr. John H. Smith. Reported that the competitions were well supported, over 200 targets being completed, although some intending competitors were unable to shoot owing to lack of range space. The all-round standard of shooting was very good and Mr. R. Baggley, the highest scorer, dropped only one point out of 200. This was an aperture sight event and 12 medals were given for the two classes, but no winner of a medal dropped more than ten points. Besides thanking the secretaries of the various clubs who helped him the Secretary thanks all those who entered and supported this shoot, especially those who knowing that they had a very slender chance of winning particularly for their sportsmanship. The Vice-President's Address (Mr. John H. Smith) , Mr. Deputy Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen, As Vice-President of the Lincoln Small-Bore Rifle Association, it is my pleasurable duty to express our thanks and gratitude to the Lincoln Corporation for the kind and constructive interest they have shown in local riflemen by promoting this excellent Victory Com petition. The competition has proved instructive, as it has shown the local need of an outdoor range, which would enable Lincoln to take its place in the list of National meetings. With the many attractions this beautiful City offers, there is no other reason why the Society of Miniature Rifle Clubs should not occasionally hold their Northern Bisley in Lincoln. The shooting throughout the competition has been most enjoyable and carried out with traditional sportsmanship. The wonderful gunscore of Mr. R. Baggley of 199 ex 200 in metric shooting, tells us that Lincoln, when given the chance, can produce men second to none. It is pleasing to note that the 3rd Batt. City of Lincoln Home Guard and the A.T.C. showed well in the prize list. The Association is also very grateful for the work put in by its secretary, Mr. L. W. J. Kennett, who no doubt feels pardonable pride in that his daughter. Miss Pamela Kennett, has won the " blue riband " of the ladies' shooting, the silver medal. 1 am most happy, on behalf of the Association, to propose a most hearty vote of thanks to the Deputy Mayor, Cr. H. Bennett, for the welcome he has extended to us here tonight and in presenting those admirable medals, which undoubtedly will be jealously treasured by the fortunate recipients. I call upon Mr. L. W. J. Kennett to second the vote of thanks. Class A.—Silver medals : Mr. R. Baggley, Mr. R. Hurley. Bronze medals ' Messrs. A. Cooper, F. Troop, J. H. Smith, P. Clapham, L, Beckham, L. W. J, Keimett: Class B —Silver medal; Mr. R. Sanderson. Bronze medals : Messrs. B. Judge, H. M, Booth, H, C. Rosling. Class C.—Silver medal ; Miss P. Keimett. Bronze medals : Mrs. Barratt, Miss E. Sleight. Mrs. Martin. . (Only the silver medal winners are placed m order of merit.) * * * A very successful year, both from shooting and financial points of view, was reported at the first annual meeting of the Bridport H.G. R.C., Brigadier R. S. Ellis (president) presiding. The secretary's report, presented by Mr. F. A. Sweet, stated that the club was formed on 25th March, 1945, and commenced its activities on 1st May of that year. The club had entered teams in National and coimty com petitions. A team was entered in the S.M.R.C. Winter League, 1945, and although placed fourth in the league table, were equal on points w i t h t h e w i n n e r s . T h e c l u b a l s o e n t e r e d a t e a m i n t h e S t a n d i n g and Kneeling League. This competition was a new venture organised by the S.M.R.C. The team shot extremely well, improving their score in every match and finishing third in the league table. Three teams w e r e e n t e r e d i n t h e D o r s e t H o m e G u a r d L e a g u e . T h e A t e a m w o n Division I, thus becoming the champion Home Guard team in Dorset, losing only one match in the competition. Tfie B team, in Division II, also shot well and were placed third in that Division. C team, most of whom were inexperienced in competitive shooting, were to be congratulated on winning Division IV. In the S.M.R.C. Winter League, 1946, two teams were entered. A team were placed in Division 5 and B team in Division 30 (there were 48 Divisions in this competition). A team shot veiy well in their division and won the runners-up prize. B team also shot well, gaining fourth place in the league table, only two points behind the winners. As would be seen from the treasurer's report, the club was in a sound financial position ending the season with a balance in hand of over £50. This was due largely to the holding of dances during the winter months, and it had enabled members to have their shooting absolutely free of all charge. The standard of shooting throughout had been remarkably good, and compared very favourably with any other club in the county. Brig. Ellis kindly presented a challenge cup. * * * At a Leeds open shoot in August, the Harrogate R.C. team (S- Ward (capt.), Mrs. M. Ward and F. Norman) won the Lord Mayor's Challenge Shield for disc shooting at 100 yards range. Time, 27 sec. S. Ward also won the Linsey Challenge Cup. Visiting Guildford in August, the Byfleet R.C. achieved an ambition of many years' standing, that of beating the home team on their own range. Seven to shoot and six to count over the 25, 50 and 100 yards ranges, Byfleet scored 1,741 and Guildford 1,723. Possibles at 25 yards were made by Magnay and Siggs (Guildford) for totals of 294 each, and at 50 yards by Brown and Baker (Byfleet) for totals of 296 and 295 respectively . » » » There was a meeting of the West Somerset R.L. at the Reading Room, Washford, in August last, clubs represented being Dunster, Old Cleeve, Police, Stogumber, and Williton. Apologies for non- attendance were received from Insp. Lintern (Police) and Mr. J. Merson (Crowcombe). Mr. W. B. Kille (chaiiman) presided, supported by Messrs. W. C. Howell and R. G. Cox (joint hon. secretaries). The principal business was to consider whether affiliation should be made to the County Rifle Association, and it was agreed that this should be done and county competitions entered. Mr. Kille was nominated as a vice-chaiiman for the Somerset Association, and he and Mr. Lintern were thanked for their excellent report of the County meeting, held at Taunton on 6th July. It was decided to hold a social function at the Egremont Hotel, Williton, to present trophies already won in League and Cup competitions, Tuesday, 8th October being the date suggested. Clubs were asked to notify the secretaries as soon as possible of the numbers hkely to attend. WWW.RIFLEMAN.ORG.UKAutumn, 1946. Penzance .22 Rifle League will run a points league again t^is winta. The League will be open to all clubs and units affiliated to the with headquarters in the area of the Land's End R-A- (12th Cornwa (Land's End) Battn. H.G. Area). The fixture list has been forwarded to all teams entering, and shooting commenced early m beptemper. It will be necessary to shoot a match every 10-14 days depending on the number of entries. * * * I am glad to hear that the New Brighton M.R.C., of whiclr Mr. G. F. Thew is president, Mr. E. Birchall chairman, Mr. E. G. inew hon. treasurer, and Mr. C. V. Wemham hon. secretary, is going aneaa with a swing. A number of events of interest to members have been held. Among them was the entertairuncnt by the club of a team Irom the 16th Cheshire Battn. H.G. R.C., a week or two ago. The visit ing team arrived breathing vengeance for their defeat one day at the end of May, but again the New Brighton club won, this time by 21 points. The club looks forward to further matches with the 16tn Cheshires and any other local rifle club that would like to ' have a go." In fact, they are willing to challenge all comers. By the way, the hon. secretary, Mr. C. V. Wemham, resides at 3, Evesham Road, and his telephone number is Wallasey 3859. 4 c On 17th"'August at the president's shoot, Holmbrook R.C., Mr. J. Keir scored a possible at both 50 and 100 yards. This was the first time such a feat has been accomplish^ since the club opened in 1908. Mr. E. Nelson presented Mr. Keir with a silver spoon, given by him to the first member to score a possible during the season. Mr. E. Nelson also gave a silver spoon and other prizes for competition. » A general meeting of the Wrexham and District M.R.C. was held at the Wynnstay Arms Hotel, Wrexham, on Friday, 6th September. All past inembers, and anyone interested in competitive shooting are cordially invited to join the revived club. Any information required in connection with the club can be obtained from Mr. R. V. Fames, The Bazaar, Arcade, Wrexham. « » Mrs. Edyvean Walker is very nearly the best small-bore shot in Sussex. Mrs. Walker, a member of the Chatsworth R.C., was one of a number of women enthusiasts who competed in the Sussex County Smallbore Open Rifle Meeting at Lancing in August, and one of the events which she tackled was the individual Championship of Sussex, for which the handsome Sutton Gold Cup is awarded. She was one of the best ten of a large entry who survived to fire in the final stage. The final was won by E. G. Bull, of Southwick, with a score of 685 out of a possible 700. Mrs. Walker was placed fourth, beating Long, who was fifth, and her husband, seventh. The competition for the Sussex Towns and Villages Team Championship drew nine entries. Brighton won the Sutton Statuette, the trophy for this event, with an aggregate of 487—four points ahead of Eastbourne and ten ahead of Wo r t h i n g A . * * • The Frome Supporters' R.C. has constructed a first-class rifle range at the South Parade Club and Institute, and are opening their mem bership to all and sundry over the age of 18 years. * * * The 25th general meeting of the Swansea R.C. was held at the ^ Range, Sketty Park, the president (Mr. Malcolm Smith) presiding. The captain's report was given in the absence of Mr. E. J. Thomas, and referred to the great work carried out by the range officers, par t i c u l a r l y S e r g t . D o w n e r a n d M r. H . H o w e l l s . T h e h o n . t r e a s u r e r (Mr. H. G. Rees) presented the accounts for the years ended 1943, 1944 and 1945, from which it was clear that the club had been carried on in a satisfactory manner. The match secretary (Sergt. M. G. Downei) said the outstanding performance was Mr. B. Featherstone's magnificent average of 99.45 per cent for 11 matches in the S.M.R.C. Wartime League for 1943.^. The A team also excelled themselves when rhey finished at the top of the 2nd Division of the S.M.R.C. Summer League with a team average score of 492.36 per match out. of a possible 500 without being defeated. The B team were runners- up in the 6th Division of the League for 1943. The club championship cup was won in 1943 by Mr. B. Featherstone, in 1944 by Mr. R. M. Thomas, and in 1945 by Mr. I. L. Roberts. Other cup winners during the period were ; Rosebowl, B. Featherstone, R. M. Thomas, Ivor L. Roberts ; Daniel Cup, B. Featherstone, H. Howells, W. Hurse; Haines Cup, Miss E. Cousins, R. G. Clement, W. Hurse ; Joslyn Cup, B. Featherstone, H. Howells, H. Howells ; Blakemore Cup, W. Hurse, Mrs. Francis. Mr. E. J. Thomas retired after many years as club captain. His successor is Mr. R. G. Clement. Mr. C. G. P. Haines, who had been the hon. secretary for over 20 years, has moved to Cardiff. Mr. R. M. Thomas was elected in his stead. Thanks were accorded to Mr. E. J. Thomas and Mr. Haines for many years' valuable service. The final stage of the Mason Cup was completed on 27th August, when the undermentioned marksmen shot shoulder-to-shoukler for the cup which was presented for the indoor handicap champion of Worthing. Congratulations go to the West Tarring R.C. for pro viding the first, second and third. P. Phillips, who was the winner, ; is one of the most improved shots in the Worthing M.R.A. The ; Worthing Ladies' R.C. were well to the fore, their member being Mrs. I Lindars, who is also much improved. She was fourth, being only two points behind the wirmer. The following were the winners :— I P. Phillips, West Tarring, 394.53 ; 2 H. Stillwell, West Tarring, 393.62 ; 3 R. Trustaas, West Tarring, 393 ; 4 Mrs. Lindars, Worthing Ladies, 392.62 ; 5 D. Worley, A Coy. H.G., 392.35 ; 6 H. King, Chatsworth, 392.26 ; 7 H. E. Walker, Chats- worth, 392 : 8 L. Stone, " A " Coy. H.G., 391.75 ; 9 Mrs. Walker, Chatsworth, 391 ; 10 E. Payne, " A " Coy. H.G., 386.70. * * * The annual rifle and revolver shooting competitions, organised by the Halifax Division W.R. Constabulary A.A. were held on Sunday, I 1st September, on the ranges at Sowerby Bridge.' Con. Shaw acted as secretary for the event and Mr. F. Wilson, Sowerby Bridge, was scrutineer. The revolver competition took place in the open air, with 12 entries, but, owing to the weather, the rifle competition, which attracted 14 entries, was on the indoor range. Results were:—Rifle shooting. Divisional Championship and Foster Cup, 1 Sergt. Colley (Sowerby Bridge), 2 Con. Snow (Mobile Section), 3 Con. Shaw (Sower by Bridge); Revolver shooting, 1 and Divisional Championship, Con. Shaw, 2 Con. Snow, 3 Sergt. Colley. The County events will take place on 19th September, when the Halifax Divisional team will compete, and there will be a strong representation from the Division in the individual events. * * * Coleraine A team, with 1,132 points, won the Moore-Browne Chal lenge Shield at the second annual shoot of Coleraine R.C. Coleraine B team (1,099) were second, and Roe Valley (1,063) were third. Highest/individual scores Coleraine A (J. Nicholl), 290 points; B (A. Simpson and J. Fillis), 284 ; Roe Valley (Boyd Love, 281. Mrs. Leeper (Cookstown) won the ladies' championship and M'Neary Cup in 25 yards, 50 yards and 100 yards individual shooting. * * * The first annual outing of 102 Essex (Colchester) R.C. to Felixstowe was held on Sunday, 25th August, when a party of 60 members and families were taken to the seaside in fine weather, arriving after a lovely ride through the countryside. On arrival the party went off in small groups to various entertainments till lunchtime, which they partook of with a good appetite, sitting down together as a family. The after noon was spent swimming, sunbathing on the beach, etc. Tea was served as a family affair, and everyone voted that the day had been well spent. Leaving Felixstowe, the journey home caught the party in a storm, but spirits were high and community singing in the 'buses, assisted by Mr. J. Hilliard's accordion, kept all cheerful until arriving home. • , The Waring Council have received an application from the Guardian R.C. for approval in principle to the erection of a miniature rifle range on a site adjoining the Basingstoke Canal and the Council's depot in Goldsworth Road. The engineer and surveyor reported that part of the proposed building would be over the Council's water sewer. The Council approved the proposal in principle, subject to the submission of detailed plans showing satisfactory means of access to the sewer. B R I T I S H " 4 0 0 " C L U B In order to assist in the revival of activities of the club all members are requested to communicate with the Secretary : Mr. C. SONLEY, Grove Lodge, A N L A B Y, N e a r H u U , Yo r k s . •in order that the address lists may be brought up to date. It is hoped to call a meeting in September on the Ham and Petersham range during the S.M.R.C. Open Meeting. WWW.RIFLEMAN.ORG.UKAutumn, 1946. T H E R I F L E M A N 51 It is interesting to learn that the pre-war R.E. and Ordnance Sun-ey M.R.C. are hoping to get going again this season as one club, to be known as the Ordnance Survey Miniature Rifle Club. * * * Colonel J. Sargeant, D.S.O., distributed the prizes at the 21st annual rifle shooting competition at Ballykinlar in connection with Downpatrick and Newtownards districts of the Ulster Special Con stabulary. Team results :—Newtownards A 321 (winners of Ma,\well Shield), Listooder 304 (Area Cup), Coomber A 298 (Connor Cup), Ballykilbeg A 295 (M'Mullan Cup). * * * With a score of 300, J. Hall, City of Birmingham, won the Presi dent's Prize in the West of Scotland S.B.R.A.'s shoot. Walter Buchanan (Falkirk L.R.) was second, a point behind. In the cham pionship proper, A. A. Smith (Glasgow Police) was winner with 1,979, and he also won the Colonel Mickel trophy, and shaied first place with J. D. Nicoll (Perth) in the E Connor competition. Glasgow Police team retained the Open Team championship, with Perth A lunners-up. The Nicolls, father and son, were second in the Grand a g g r e g a t e . + In July the new range of Inkpen R.C. was formally opened by Mr. Arthur Edwards, late commander of the Inkp>en Platoon of the Home Guard. In a short address, Mr. Edwards stated that the formation of the Rifle Club carried on the good work of the Home Guard in that it taught a man the proper use of weapons ; it en couraged a sense of comradeship, a quality needed more than ever before in these post-war years, and it provided an excellent source of entertainment. He added that great credit reflected on those members who had given up so much of their time to make the range ready for use, and he expressed their gratitude to Miss White, who had so kindly loaned the site for the range. The Club was affiliated to the S.M.R.C. Membership details can be obtained from Mr. K. Sadler, High Street, Kintbury. » * The Dumfries and Galloway Army Cadet Force M.R.L. is a live and enthusiastic organisation. The winners of the league com petition are the Annan unit with 17 points and a score of 1,772 out of a possible 1,800. Dalbeattie are the lunners-up with 17 points and a score of 1,750. Each unit dropped one point only when they fired against each other in December last, and the match "was drawn. The highest individual scorers in the league were Cpl. A. Grierson, of the Dalbeattie unit, and L./Cpl. W. Barton, of the Annan unit, each of whom had 225, which was the highest possible individual score. The remainder of the league table in order of scoring is ; Lockerbie 14 points, Dumfries 10, Wigtown 10, Wallace Hall 8, Sanquhar 6, Stranraer 4, Newton-Stewart 2, Moffat 2. * I am trying to trace the present whereabouts of a silver shield I provided some years prior to the war for yearly competition by teams from local miniature rifle clubs, writes Mr. F. J. Frost, of Springfield Road, Swindon. I have no record of the last winners, and owing to the outbreak of war the competition was, of necessity, not possible. In view of the very great interest formerly taken and the friendly rivaliy between the competing teams, it is felt that the competition should be revived, and I should^be very grateful if you could assist me to trace the last holders, either from your records, or by kindly in serting this in case any of your readers could give the required in formation. * * * Mr. F. A. Foxon has added another honour to those already won by the Hendon and Cricklewood R.C. and its members. Shooting at the recent National Full-bore Meeting, he qualified for the King's Hundred. This is the first year he has entered the competition or shot at a greater distance than 600 yards. Incliided among his scores was a possible at 500 yards, and in the final, 68 by 75 at 900 yards ; only, four points behind the best of the day. Mr. Foxon was also a member of the Middlesex County team which beat Kent for the trophy by two points. At the small-bore meeting arranged by the Hertfordshire Associatioii on the Standard Telephone and Cable Co. ranges, Mr. L. W. Wickens was equal first in the open events with 592 by 600. The Marks Shield for the Home Counties Com petition was won by Middlesex in July at the Surrey meeting with a score of 7,807 by 8,000. ^ ^ ^ In July the Rochdale and District S.B.R.L. held its third annual open-air shoot on the police range at Norden. There were 70 com petitors, who fired roughly 500 competition cards in competing for seven trophies. For the first time elubs from outside the town were allowed to compete, and representatives from Oldham Special Police and Chadderton H.G., Bacup R.C., and Piatt Bros. R.C. took part in the shoot. The clay disc shoot over 25 yards resulted in a win for the Oldham contingent, who defeated Buersil C team in the final. Mr. S. Tumbull (Rochdale R.C.) had a very successful day's shooting, winning outright the Buersil Cup, the open competition over 25 and 50 yards and aggregate for the unlimited entry competition, whilst he was also a member of the Rochdale R.C. A team, which won the Major Ricg trophy (own start handicap over 25 yards and 50 yards). Mr. S. Tu^rnbull and Mr. E. Taylor (Rochdale R.C.) and Mr. Martin- dale (Oldham Special Police) were the only competitors to obtain " possibles " dm ing the sho(H. ^ ^ The City of Ely R.C. defeated Cambridge R.C by the small margin of 1,359—1,356 in a keenly contested shoulder-to-shoulder small bore'match at Ely. » » An open rifle meeting under S.M.R.C. rules, held atjhe Michelin R.C.'s range at Campbell Road, Stoke on a week-end in July, attracted entries from many parts of Staffordshire. Michelin members cap- tuied a large number of the prizes and won both team events. E. ShuSlebotham scored the onlv possible of the meeting ana a 98 at 50 yards, but spoilt his chances in the aggregate by dropping to 91 on his first card at 100 yards. The event was oiganised by Mr. F. W. Witty, with the assistance of the Michelin R.C. committee. Mr. G. C Cole adjudicated, Mr. B. St. John Brown was statistical clerk and Messrs. J. Foulkes and S. Davis officiated as range officers. The-prizes, given by the Michelin Company, were printed by Lt.-Col. A. R. Mof fat. » » The Welsh Twenty Club is the organisation which sets out to gather together all Welshmen interested in full-bore rifle shooting. For many years part of the club has led a precarious existence, but has just managed to remain solvent, on occasions only due to the generosity of individual members of the club. The council of the club are most anxious to place the finances on a-firmer footing, and to this end have launched an endowment fund as a memorial to members of the club who made the supreme sacrifice, and as a thank-offering for victory. Members of the club at Bisley in 1946 have started the fund and have between them given a sum of £60. The council appeals to all Welsh men interested in shooting, and all who are concerned that Wales should be able to compete in sporting events on level terms with the other countries of the Empire, for generous support. The council proposes to invest all gifts which may be received, and to use the interest, first to ensure that club premises shall continue to be avail able at Bisley, where Welsh marksmen may meet and find a home ; and second, if funds are sufficient, to assist young rifle shots from Wales who might otherwise be unable to afford it, to compete at Bisley' The appeal is made by Messrs. I. H. Stockwood (captain), Ivor L. C. Roberts (hon. sec.) and^R. G. Elias (hon. treasurer). The final adjudications on the cards shot at the Oxfordshire S B rifle meeting on 21st July have now been made, and result in a personal triumph for Mr. T. Heam, of Bicester, who carried off three trophies viz., the Lord Valentia Cup for individual competitors (10 shots each at 25, 50 and 100 yaids) with a score of 294 out of 300 ■ the Pageant Cup, based on individual aggregate in the champion- ship'trophy and Lord Valantia cup competitions, with a score of 586 out of a possible 600 ; and the county sUver medal, which is pre sented by the S.M.R.C. to the highest scorer in the Lord Valentia cup competition (previous medal winners barred). LONDON SMALL-BORE RIFLE ASSOCIATION A P R I Z E M E E T I N G f o r C l a s s C " a n d " D " R i fl e m e n will be held on" OCTOBER lOth and Nth from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. and SATURDAY, OCT OBER 12th from 10 a.m. until 6.30 p.m. on The London Transport Central Range BAKER STREET STATION, MARYLEBONE ROAD, N.W.I Open to members of Affiliated Clubs and Individual Members of the Association Programmes from : W. CORNISH, 22, Hart Grove, Ealing, W.5- WWW.RIFLEMAN.ORG.UK52 Autumn, 1946. The Daily Mail Jubilee Trophy of £20 was won by Mr. S. A. Parke, of 81, Toronto Road, Gillingham. Mr. Parke is the hon. secretary of the recently formed Medway Towns R.C. » * - The Ladies' Open Championship for the West of Scotland was won by Miss J. Weir, Stirling Ladies, last week, at Croftfoot Ranges, Glasgow. Miss J. MacKay, also of the Stirling Club, tied for third p l a c e w i t h M i s s B r o w n o f P e r t h . * * So successful has the Dorchester and District S.B. League been this summer that it has been decided to form a winter section. It is proposed to embrace the Parliamentary Division of South Dorset, and entries are cordially invited from clubs within the area. If enough entries are received it may be possible to form two sections, an A section for teams of higher average, and a B section for lower average teams. Messrs. Eldridge Pope and Co., Ltd., have given a trophy. All communications in connection with the formation of the proposed league should be addressed to the secretary at 15, Culliford Road Dorchester . * * Horsforth Council are to ask the Association of Leeds and District R.C. to consider closing the rifle range at Cragg Hill Quarry, Hors forth. The decision follows a petition to the Council by local people askmg for the rifle range to be abolished. The petition has been re ferred to the West Riding Police for any action considered expedient to effect closing of the range. Permission for use of the quarry as a rifle range was given by the Council on 15th December, 1941, for a period of five years, when it was stressed that permanent approval could not be given. The secretary of the association is also being officially notified that the Council does not intend to renew per mission to use the quarry after December this year. On 28th June this year, Mr. Ernest Holmes, Broadway, Horsforth, who was struck by a bullet while working on his allotment near the shooting range died after admission to Leeds Infirmary. At the inquest the Leeds Coroner (Dr. A. J. Swanton) said that in the interests of the safety of people living in the neighbourhood further precautions should be taken, and suggested there should be stricter supervision when in experienced people were using the range. Mr. George B. Burncll (secretary of the association) told the Coroner that the rifle range had been approved by the Chief Constable of the West Riding the Horsforth Urban Council and the War Office. The S.M.RC.' are trying to save the range. * * * There is an interesting story behind the rifle with which Miss Audrey Eckton, of the Parkstone Girls' Training Corps team, won the Amazons Trophy at Bisley recently. The rifle belongs to Capt. F. R. Bacon, of Canford Cliffs, a member of the Council of the S.M.R.C., who has trained the Parkstone G.T.C. rifle team With It he obtained the highest score ever recorded in the Public Schools' Ashburton Shield, a record which has stood for over 30 years. It then went through the first world war as a sniper's rifle. Subsequently It was converted into a sporting rifle, and has shot big game in Central Africa. And now, in the hands of a new generation, it has returned once more to Bisley to secure one of the most coveted trophies. The finals of the 1921 A.T.C. Squadron's Individual Championship were fired at Lewisham R.C. at the end of July. The trophy was presOTted to the squadron by Group-Captain Gaskell Blackman, D.S.O., in recognition of their fine achievement in winning the Lady ^tchell Cup The winner was Cpl. P. Reeves, returning 187 ex 200, with Cdt. Baddock (184) second, and Cdt. Wright (183) third. National Rifle Association meeting, Bisley W.O. F. H. Ford, of Air Service Training, Hamble, was among the prize wmners in a number of competitions. Few men have done more than he to propagate .22 rifle shooting amongst the air tiaining youth .In small-bore rifle shooting a girls' team of Hamble Youth Association are being coached, and they are competing in the Women s R.A. League, shootmg fairly well. They hold third position in the League. A team from Hamble Sea Scouts are also being trained by W.O. Ford for an entry in the Duke of Connaught's Challenge Shield, open to Scouts of the Empire. The Hamble Sea Scouts have a very good record in this competition as winners of the shield three times in five years, and have also been second and third. The Scouts and the Youth Association have the assistance and encouragement of Group-Captain R. J. Barton, O.B.E., of A.S.T., and have the use of ranges and equipment at A.S.T. * * Major E. A. Capel, M.C., who has become a vice-president of the Hereford M.R.C., has given a silver challenge cup for competition among the members, and Mr. G. K. C. Macaskie, another vice- president, has presented the club with two telescopes. A new miniature rifle club has been formed at Catterick Bridge, where open meetings will be held throughout the year. The club already holds six cups, which will be competed for during the coming season. This club has a most extensive site for a range which has accommodated at one time over 150 competitors in one detail. * * » Disbanded in 1939 when the Army authorities took over the premises, the Craghead Civilian R.C. has been re-formed with a mem bership of 200. Recently the club took part in the Londonderry Shield competition at Wynyard Park, Stockton. Mr. Joseph Smith, a founder member, acted as captain. » The final of the first post-war competition organised by the small bore section of the Staffordshire R.A. was decided on the Walsall municipal range recently, with the following result; 1 Stoke 955 (possible 1,000), 2 Newcastle-under-Lyme 952, 3 Darlaston 947,' 4 Wa l s a l l 9 4 6 . » » In July a match took place between the Lydgate and Rochdale Rifle Clubs at the latter'? range at Canal Wharf. Being an inter-town match (Lydgatc's membership is largely that of the Oldham Special Constabulary) more than usual interest was aroused, particularly since Rochdale were the victors on the previous occasion when the clubs met on Lydgate's range. However, the result was reversed, Lydgate winning by eight points, the scores being 771—763. After the main shoot was over, a clay-disc shoot was held. This is an innovation on indoor ranges in Rochdale, and is quite exciting. The scheme was that eight half-inch clay discs are set up at 25 yards—a small target—and two members of each team, shooting shouldcr-to- shoulder and taking four discs per team, endeavour to shatter them, the winners being those who break their discs first. One pair from Lydgate made the extraordinarily good time of 18 seconds. Lydgate won this event also by four matches to three. One Rochdale pair— Mrs. Crompton and Mrs. Kay—deserve congratulations on a very stout effort, knocking out two Lydgate pairs before being themselves put out. The thanks of the Lydgate Club were expressed to Rochdale by Mr. Harvey Worth. Mr. B. W. Mortimer, past captain of Roch dale, responded. It is a matter of interest that three of the Rochdale team are ladies, showing that here is another sport at which they can hold their own on level terms with men in any company. We have before us a 60-year-old cutting of a pressman's notes on the annual invasioii of the Metropolis by Northern Scots on the occasion of the great rifle shooting contests at Wimbledon, and there are Scots t9day who resemble those of that time. He wrote : " The north contingent of Scotsmen who periodically flood the streets of modern Babylon is, this season, more rampant than I have seen it. They swarm about the Strand in varying degrees of incapacity to know their way about; they gape at the ordinary and extraordinary amenities of the Metropolis with a pawkiness that at once reveals their individuality ; they higgle with cabmen, and think it com mercial astuteness ; they partake of about six dinners a day, and permanently wreck their digestions, because they are on holiday ; they abuse French garcons as ' fat heedit feels,' because the obsequious 2tid imiocent foreigners misunderstand their demand for ' mair puddin'.' They lay in a stock of Scottish angularity, which they fancy will be mistaken for ' smairtncss'; they immure the canons of propriety in their Gladstone bags ; and after all they are ' had' at every conceivable corner. They return to Aberdeen with a Metro politan accent that is almost unintelligible to their less fortunate friends who have not had ten days in Cockneydom." One of. the oldest rifle clubs in the country, established 46 years ago in Burnham, Bucks, held its annual meeting recently, with the president (Lt.-Col. F. W. E. Morgan) in the chair. In view of a deficit in the club's balance and the increased cost in ammunition, the treasurer (Mr. H. W. Wood) said that it had been decided to increase me subsCTiption to 5s. and raise the price of shot to 8d. for 10 rounds. FIt.-Lt. C. E. Cullen wrote to the club announcing his retirement as fiumade first honorary life member, his position being hlled by Mr. V. C. Trimming, and the office of captain by Mr. W. West. Another life member elected was Mr. F. Haycock. * * * . Col. J. G. Sandie, Commandant of the Small Arms School and chairman of the Army Rifle Association, in a letter to officers command ing units, stated that the Rhine Army Shield, a central meeting trophy, had gone back to Germany. Originally a challenge shield of the A ° Rhine after the 1914-18 war, it was presented to the A.R.A. when the Rhine was evacuated in 1929. Col. Sandie added that, as soon as the weapon training policy of the General Staff was known, the match conditions would be redrafted and a new pro gramme pubhshed. WWW.RIFLEMAN.ORG.UKAutumn, 1946.T H E l O F L E M A N Much local shooting talent has been brought to light in com petitions between clubs of Wellingborough and District M.R.L. which has just completed its first season. Top of the league is Ecton M.R.C.. which won all the 20 matches shot. The club will be presented with the Goode Trophy and the eight members of the team will receive a medal each. Members of the Islip and District M.R.C., who were the runners-up in the competition, will each receive a silver medal. The member with the highest individual score of each of the nine remaining clubs will receive a bronze medal. Winners are ; G. Mills (Wellingborough Ironworks), J. Harding (Wellingborough O.C.A.), A. West (Wellingborough British Legion), C. A, Cullimore (Wellingborough and District), C. Dunkley (Finedon O.C.A.), A.E. Pyrah (Doddington), W. P. Francis (Rushden), C. Boddington (Irchester) and F. Gardner (Great Harrowden). Mr. L W. Wickens, 20, Hersant Close, Harlesden, says there are more than 100 clubs in Middlese.x. Normally, the Hendon and Cricklewood Club has its range in Cool Oak Lane, Hendon, on the other side of the Welsh Harp Reservoir from Willesden. But the need for houses has deprived them of it and they are now temporarily using a range at Colindale Trolleybus Depot. Until the move was made the club facilities were also shared by the Handley Page Sports Club, B.T.H. Willesden, 102 Middlx. Home Guard, the Women's Home Defence Service, and a number of pre-service training units. The Club is now in its 41st year, and it is a long time since the late Field Marshal Lord Roberts opened their range in Rentres Lane. On that occasion Hendon Urban District Coimcil presented Lord Roberts with an address of welcome, and the members of the Club, because of the striking resemblance between the Field Marshal and Mr. Gustaf Roos, their founder, cheered the wrong car. Later the membership ^ew to 600 and the range had to be extended. On one occasion it was visited by Princess Louise Augusta, and for many years the late Williiun Le Queux, writer of thrillers, was a great friend of the Club. For many years Mr. J. Hall, M.B.E., has been presi dent and a great worker for the Club, as well as a respected figurehead. Vice-presidents include Mrs. B. Aytron Gould, M.P., and Sir Hugli Lucas-Tooth, M.P. Club captain is Mr. F. A. Foxon. Last month, in Scotland, he shot for the, Middlesex team, who brought back with them the County Sextette. Mr. Foxon has also been English cham-, pion and three times champion of Middlesex. » » ■ Mrs. A. B. Culf, Manchester, both small-bore tuid rifle enthusiast, who took up full-bore shooting diming the war " in case the Germans came," beat Miss Marjorie Foster, King's Prize winner, with 47 out of 50 in her first Bisley shoot yesterday. She can't join her husband shooting for the King's Prize because she wasn't in the Services. But women who cooked for the Home Guard are eligible. The 9th (Torbay) Bn. Devon Army Cadet Force team won the Fortescue County Cup for miniature rifle shooting at the County Camp at Braunton in August. Competed for by the nine battalions of the Devon Army Cadet Force, the cup was presented by the donor, Col. the Earl Fortescue, Lord Lieutenant of Devon. * * * More th^n 200 spectators watched 125 competitors in a miniature rifle tournament on the Rochdale Borough Police open air range at Whittaker Moss, Norden, in June. The event was organised by the Borough Police Athletic and Social Club. The day's most successful competitor was Miss B. G. Grime of Manchester University, who won three firsts and the prizes awarded for the best lady's card in the 25 and 50 yards individual straight shoot. The Chief Constable of Rochdale (Mr. S. J. Harvey) was present at the tournament and the Chief Constable of Stockport accompanied a police team from that town. The admirable arrangements made by Sgt. A. Cowpe, hon. secretary of the Police Athletic Club, played a big part in the success of the day's sport. In a " confession " to members of the S.B.R.L. at their social in the Dorothy Cafe recently the Borough Member told how, during the long sitting in the House this week, he had the " irreverent thought " If only I had a .22." But Major Symonds' prospective target was not a member of the Opposition. His eye was on the roof of the Chamber, and, in order not to be sent to sleep by the person talking at the time, he counted the electric light clusters. There were 10 of them, each with 24 bulbs and no shades, it was these that presented such a fascinating target ! Major Symonds was responding to the toast of " The Guests," which had been pro posed by Inspector Silk, of the Borough Police, and apologised for the absence of his wife and for his lack of-preparedness for a speech. The latter was due, he said, to the fact that he had entered the " gas works " at 10.15 on Monday morning and had not left until a quarter to one that morning. But he was glad to see the spirit of friendly comradeship which existed within the League, and said it was an cx(^llent thing for people whatever differences of opinion they might hold on certam aspects of life to meet together on common ^ou^. Mr. George Hawes was m the chair, and among those supporting him was the president of the League (Mr. B. N. Bebbington) The Winter League trophies and the prizes won at the League onen meet ing were presented during the evening. The toast of the League was proposed by Lt.-Col. Guy F D^e. and was responded to by Major Weatherhead (vice-president). The entertainment was of a hieh Standard. ^ * * » The two ^my Cadet Force teams from Ross and Ledburv tied m the open sight^s s^tion of the Herefordshire R.A. League. tJnd in a shoot-off at the Drill Hall, Hereford recently Ross won by a margin of 35 points. * » * Some good shooting was seen at the Shefiield and District R.A.'s annual prize meeting. The Roper Championship Cup and S.M.R.C. silver medal go to F. Mortimer, of Atlas and Norfolk, winner of the expert aggregate. Well done, Mr. Mortimer ! Some marvellous shooting was done by D. Wilson (Jessops), a novice. He finished second in the expert aggregate, won the Tyro Championship Cup. and tied with J. Shaw (Sheffield Police) for top place in the novice aggregate. Miss M. Taylor shot e.xceptionally well in both ladies' competitions, and proved an easy first. Possibles were scored by D. Wilson at 100, 50 and 25 yards, F. Mortimer, S. G. Vyse. W. A. Rogers at 50 yards and F. Flude at 25 yards' range. The Tyro Cup (teams of 3) was won by Sheffield R.C. with a score of 867. Atlas and Norfolk came second with 856, and Sheffield Transnort with 855. * Members of the Rifle Shooting section of Spelthome Sports Club opened their new .22 range on the club ground at Staiens Road, Ash- ford Common, in July, when a match was held against the 5th Battn. Middlesex H.G.O.C.A., a most enjoyable afternoon's sport resulting in a win for the home team by a small margin. The secretary, Mr. E. O. Barnett, of The Chestnuts, Cadbury Road, Sunbury. offers a welcome to prospective members. Some Things Special! The S.M.R.C. "Perfect" Shot Gauges now available at 7/6 net, post free. Every Club should have one of these Guaranteed -22 Inch Gauges with absolute concentric plugs. / White Target Boards near pre-war Standard A limited supply of these Target Boards has become available. 25 Yards 5 Bull Match pattern Targets have been printed. These Boards are more expensive, therefore, cost of such Targets will be 40/- per 1,000. Other pattern Targets will be issued as the Boards become available. Please specify when ordering White Target Boards. Order from S.M.R.C. Macrae Handicapping System One copy of the Macrae Handicapping System has been forwarded to each Club. The price is 2/- per copy and it is hoped that all Clubs will kindly remit this small sum or return the Handicap Chart if not required. We do, however, suggest that it is an excellent Handicap Chart to have on the Club Range f o r r e f e r e n c e . WWW.RIFLEMAN.ORG.UKNext >