Cranborne archers shoot high and hit £1K fundraising target

The Amanda Shoot was set up in 2014 in memory of the club’s current chairman’s daughter, who received wonderful care and support from the charity. Since it started, the event has grown from a small competition amongst local clubs to one which draws archers from across the south. This year, the Amanda Shoot included a new ‘Have A Go’ feature. Anyone, from tiny tots to teenagers and grandparents, was encouraged to try out their Robin Hood skills.

Arthur Budd, immediate past chairman of the club, said: “We’re really pleased to be supporting Macmillan Caring Locally and delighted that we have been able to give this donation from the Amanda Shoot. Several of our members and their families have been affected by cancer and received help from this great charity.”

The Bracken Company of Archers has about 100 members. Arthur joined in 2011 as a beginner when he was recovering from prostate cancer. He needed an activity that would get him outside and help rebuild his strength and thought he’d give archery a go. From the first time he picked up a bow, he was hooked.

“Archery’s a great sport and very accessible,” adds Arthur. “It really is suitable for all ages – whole families can join and take part together. The Bracken Company of Archers is very friendly and there’s always something going on. We run events throughout the year and we do support several other charities but Macmillan Caring Locally is, and will continue to be, our main beneficiary.”

Plans for next year’s Amanda Shoot are already underway but, at the wishes of her father, from 2017, it will be known as the Macmillan Local Shoot.

Neal Williams, Trust Secretary of Macmillan Caring Locally, said, “We really value the long-standing support of the Bracken Company of Archers and are honoured that they are renaming this brilliant event as the Macmillan Local Shoot. We want to say a massive thank you to their members and all who took part this year. Their much-needed and generous donation will help us to keep providing excellent care to our patients.”