HALWILL Junction now has its own archery club, thanks to an Active Villages grant of £3,000.

Frank Bath, a local resident and qualified archery coach, received information from Torridge District Council's sports and leisure team, detailing the grant funding available through the Active Villages scheme.

He immediately set about creating the Junction Archers.

The group has grown in the last six months to more than 25 members.

Frank said: 'Junction Archers is three clubs in one: a general adult club, one for young people under the age of 18 and one specifically for disabled people.

'Although we are three clubs, we shoot together as one club and have a single committee.

'We're so pleased to have received the funding from Active Villages – it allowed me to set up the group from nothing as there aren't any other clubs nearby.'

Members of all ages from seven to 70 are now enjoying shooting every Friday in Halwill Parish Hall.

Seven-year-old Haydn Bath said: 'I really enjoy shooting, as it is time that I can spend with my dad and I love it when I hit gold.'

Club members Peter and Jane Forrow have recently returned with gold and bronze medals from competitions further afield, shooting barebow.

Jane Forrow said: 'Setting up this group here in Halwill has been fantastic for us and I hope it will encourage more young people into the sport.'

An after school archery club has also been set up in Halwill Primary School.

Torridge District councillor Barry Parsons, whose ward includes Halwill, said: 'Funding like this opens up new opportunities to people of all ages and abilities in rural areas.

'I'm delighted to have met the Junction Archers and I look forward to hearing of more success stories from their ranks.'

More information on the Junction Archers can be found on the website at http://www.junctionarchers.org.uk">www.junctionarchers.org.uk

Further information on Active Devon is available from Torridge District Council's Sports and Leisure Team on 01237 428743.