Shepton Mallet is home to a hidden treasure – its historic Rifle and Pistol Club.

Founded amidst the turmoil of World War II, the club began its journey at the Kings Arms - Dust Hole - in the skittle alley. It has since transformed into an institution boasting a dedicated 25-yard Smallbore range and a membership steeped in shooting prowess.

Founded in 1942, the club was initially located at the Kings Arms, where members gathered in the skittle alley to practice their skills. However, alterations to the pub led the club to receive a generous £15,000 donation from Francis and Arthur Showering to construct their own facilities at West Shepton Playing Fields.

Work getting underway on the club

This considerable donation enabled club members to band together in the early 1970s to build their premises at West Shepton Playing Fields at a cost of £8,000, a testament to the spirit of community and dedication that characterises the club to this day. The remainder of the donation was honourably returned to the Showerings family.

The club has a current membership of 33, with a rich history decorated with prestigious awards and championships. It has also been the training ground for champion shooters and now stands as one of the few remaining rifle and pistol clubs in the area, drawing visitors from far and wide.

As the club looks to the future, they are eager to welcome new members to try their hand at shooting. Joining the club requires a police vetting, but as the club chairman, Pete Lintern, notes, "In all our history, only one person has ever been refused membership."

Members of the club can partake in a variety of disciplines, including .22 Smallbore Prone, standing, Bench-rest, Lightweight sporting, and 3P. For those with an interest in pistol shooting, the club also offers facilities and Club weapons for Air pistol shooting up to 25 yards.

Anyone who fancies giving shooting a go can visit the club on Monday or Tuesday evenings to learn more about the club and the sport.

Pete Lintern and Trevor Harris

Pete Lintern encourages newcomers to visit and explore the club, assuring that "We have rifles and pistols and coats for people to use and we'll teach you everything you need to know. There's a three-month probationary period where you pay £3 for a session and after that, you'll be able to join as a full member."

Aside from the shooting and social aspects, Lintern also highlights that shooting can "teach you technique, discipline, and safety skills that can be used in your everyday life."

Echoing this sentiment, Trevor Harris extends a warm invitation to newcomers: "Monday and Tuesday are our beginner nights, and if you've ever been interested in shooting, we'd love for you to come along. We're a really friendly group and if you're interested in shooting, come along, have a look about, try yourr hand at shooting and find out what we're all about."

With its vibrant community, prestigious history, and welcoming atmosphere, the Shepton Mallet Rifle and Pistol Club offers a unique opportunity to discover and engage with the sport of shooting - step into a world of technique, discipline, and camaraderie and explore a sport that combines skill with a sense of community.