Barden Charity Clay Shoot Seeks More Teams Ahead of June 28 Event

The Barden Charity Clay Shoot, a beloved annual event held in North Yorkshire, is calling for more teams to participate in what may be its final year in its current format. Organised by the Birch family on their land near Leyburn, this event has become a significant fundraiser, supporting various charities, particularly the national charity Support Dogs, which has benefited from the shoot for the past six years.

Importance of the Event

Since its establishment in 2008, originally as the Azerley Charity Clay Shoot, the event has raised approximately £300,000 for good causes. It was created as a way for the Birch family to give back to the charities that helped them after the birth of their daughter, Molly, who has cerebral palsy. The funds raised have been crucial for many families, helping them access support services and assistance dogs.

Desperate Need for Teams

This year, the organisers are facing a challenge as they need more teams to sign up to ensure the shoot can go ahead. With the event scheduled for Sunday, June 28, there is a pressing need for at least 15 additional teams to register before the end of May. If not, this could mark the first time in 18 years that the shoot does not occur.

Kevin Birch, Molly’s father and one of the event organisers, expressed the importance of the shoot: “The event is so important to the charity which desperately needs to raise as much money as possible so it can help more families in the same way that it has helped ours. If we have to pull the plug on the event altogether, it would be completely devastating to so many.”

What to Expect

The Barden Clay Shoot promises an exciting day for participants and spectators alike. Each team, consisting of four members, can enter for £500, which includes access to 500 clays. The top three teams will receive cash prizes of £1,000, £500, and £250, while the highest-placed ladies’ team will win a pair of Original Muck Boot Company boots.

In addition to the clay shooting competition, there will be a variety of activities and refreshments available throughout the day, including:

• Hot food and cakes

• A bar open from noon

• A pool shoot with a prize of £50 for the highest gun per 20 competitors

• A raffle and tombola

• A ‘have-a-go’ archery competition

To participate, individuals must be over 16 years old and hold a shotgun certificate. Those interested in joining the shoot can pre-register at www.bardenclayshoot.co.uk or email bardencharityclayshoot@gmail.com for more information.

Support Dogs Charity

Support Dogs plays a crucial role in helping children and adults with disabilities by providing specially trained assistance dogs. These dogs, like Molly’s Labrador, Chess, help with various tasks, such as picking up dropped items, assisting with balance, and fetching help in emergencies. The charity has made a significant impact on the lives of many families, including the Birch family.

Molly, now 18 and studying at York College, is on the organising committee for the shoot. She has shared how much Chess has improved her life, allowing her to gain more independence and confidence. The bond between Molly and Chess exemplifies the vital support that assistance dogs provide.

Ready for June

As the date approaches, the urgency for more teams to join this year’s Barden Charity Clay Shoot becomes ever more critical. Danny Anderson, head of fundraising at Support Dogs, has expressed gratitude to those who have already signed up but emphasised the need for public support: “Without an additional 15 teams signing up before the end of May, it will not be able to go ahead this year.”

The Barden Charity Clay Shoot is not just a day of fun and competition; it represents a lifeline for many families. It is a chance to come together, support a good cause, and make lasting memories. Those who wish to participate or support the event in any way are encouraged to act quickly to ensure its success.

To learn more about Support Dogs and their incredible work, visit www.supportdogs.org.uk or call 0114 2617800. This event is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause while enjoying a day in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside.