Samlesbury Longbow Archers, located at Preston Grasshoppers' Rugby Union Club in Preston, is a traditional longbow club that has been operating since November 2004. With a current membership of approximately 40+ members, the club offers regular shooting sessions on Monday (evening during summer), Thursday, and Saturday mornings.
Club members are allowed to shoot on any day once they have completed a probationary period and as long as the ground is not being used by anyone else. Samlesbury Longbow Archers is affiliated with the British Long-Bow Society (BLBS), and therefore, all club members must belong to the BLBS and adhere to its rules.
The club hosts four British Long-Bow Society shoots each year, exclusive to BLBS members. They also organise various open shoots, including the Four Counties shoot and the Azincourt shoot, where participants dress in mediaeval attire. Additionally, the club holds regular competitions throughout the season, including a handicap shoot on one Saturday of each month. Detailed information about all shoots and events can be found on the Events page of their social media and club directories.
For beginners who are interested in learning to safely and competently shoot with a longbow, Samlesbury Longbow Archers offers a comprehensive beginners' course. Usually held between April and August, these six-week courses take place outdoors at Preston Grasshoppers Rugby Union ground. The club provides all the necessary equipment and coaching.
During the course, participants start by shooting at distances of 15 to 20 yards and gradually progress to longer distances once they have mastered the technique. To enrol in the beginners' course, interested individuals can download the application form from the website. For further information and inquiries, Alan Cowie can be contacted at 01772 743916.
The course fee is 60. 00 per person and includes tuition in longbow shooting technique, use of the club's equipment, BLBS insurance, and instruction in safety and BLBS Rules of Shooting. Special offers are available for parent and child (aged 11-17) and couples. Other special offers may be available upon inquiry.
Please note that the minimum age requirement is 11, and individuals under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.
Samlesbury Longbow Archers takes pride in its affiliation with the British Long-Bow Society. The club's address is located at Preston Grasshoppers' RU Club, Lightfoot Green Lane, Lightfoot Green, Preston, Lancashire, PR4 0AP.
Please be aware that Samlesbury Longbow Archers is not responsible for the content of other websites linked from their site, and viewing those sites is done at your own risk.
For more information, updates, and useful resources, such as entry forms, event details, blogs, and contact information, visit their social media and club directories. They are open to welcoming new members and providing a fulfilling traditional longbow archery experience.