On the pull
Gunfire is an uncommon sound across most of our country.
But if you find yourself in certain parts of the countryside at the right time of the week then you are sure to be startled by the distinctive crack of firearms.
Yet fear not, the sound is unlikely to be the opening salvo of an unforeseen foreign invasion, nor a group of squaddies who have strayed too far from their practice battle ground.
Instead the most plausible explanation is that the gunfire is coming from one of the thousands of shooting clubs that are scattered across the Lancashire countryside and beyond.
And despite their enthusiasm for guns, shooting enthusiasts insist that it is the sport and not the weaponry that keeps them coming back time and gain.
Steven Dawes, 45, from Hindley, is secretary of Bolton Gun Club which has two sites, a clay pigeon ground and a rifle and pistol range, near Westhoughton
Steven said: "Some people hear the shots and think we are a gang of
nutters running around the countryside with our guns.
"That couldn't be further from the truth.
"Our emphasis is always on safety, but we enjoy ourselves too and the competition does get serious.
"If you are a competitive person then this is the sport for you."
An estimated one million people take part in gun-sports every weekend across the UK, either shooting clays, targets or, when the season comes around, birds and animals.
One thing that they all have in common is how seriously they take their chosen sport and how sharp they are when it comes to gun safety.
And given the potential consequences of a mishap it is easy to see why, so it was no surprise to spend the early portion of my own first lesson learning about the correct way to hold and carry a gun.
Then it was onto the theory - apparently people instinctively shoot over the top of a clay so the key is to aim a little in front and below it.
It was sound advice because my first go saw the target explode into a satisfying cloud of dust.
One by one the clays met their end - either gently floating onto the grass of the clay ground or, more often than not I am pleased to say, as a collection of tiny pieces spread over several feet.
Frustratingly my companion was missing even fewer than I was.
Satisfied that we had got the hang of it Steven moved us onto the sporting section of the ground for a crack at something harder.
To my annoyance four out of five clays escaped unscathed - my friend managed the same strike rate in reverse to declare himself the convincing champion.
And it seems that the element of competition above all else is what appeals to the club members.
Regardless of your age, sex or experience in clay shooting you can take part and win.
Steven said: "Competitive shooting takes place on a level playing field - the young compete against the old, the girls against the boys.
"It truly is a sport for all."
Bolton Gun Club welcomes new shooters regardless of experience, all you are asked to cover is the price of your shells and a booking fee.
A session costs 4.50 for adults of 2.50 for juniors while a box of shells also costs 4.50
New members are also welcome and juniors must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
For more information contact Steven Dawes by email, steven@boltongunclub.co.uk, or go to www.boltongunclub.co.uk
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Weather for Wigan
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 14 C to 25 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: West
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