Most clubs in the County run courses for beginners during the summer months and some are beginning to run indoor courses in the winter also . Typically these courses last from four to six weeks (one lesson of up to about two hours each week) with a modest fee covering tuition, the loan of all the equipment required and public liability insurance.
The courses are suitable for men and women, girls and boys. Most clubs stipulate a lower age of about 8 years and all require a parent, or a guardian appointed by a parent, to accompany children below school leaving age.
Even if you are not thinking of taking up archery seriously, these courses are great fun and they allow everyone to have a go at the "Robin Hood" thing under safe conditions, using proper equipment and with good tuition.
If you are thinking of taking up archery, as a serious sport or as a not-so-serious pastime, you are advised not to buy any equipment until you have completed a beginners course and are more knowledgeable about what equipment you need.
Even after a beginners course, you may want more time to think carefully about the equipment that you require and clubs can usually lend you some equipment to get you through this period. Most importantly, they can offer excellent advice about what to buy (and what not to buy!)
Details of courses can be obtained from club secretaries. Addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses and internet addresses for clubs are on the "Membership" page.
If you want further general information, contact Chris Carroll, at:
4 Russett Close, Ampthill, Beds. MK45 2PH
Telephone or fax him on (01525) 404514 or email him at jccarroll@screaming.net