RAF Lakenheath   Right Corner Banner
Join the Air Force

News > Liberty Adventures: Medieval archers sighted near Lakenheath
 
Photos 
Liberty Adventures: Medieval archers sighted near Lakenheath
BRANDON, England - Tech. Sgt. Chris Fisher, 48th Civil Engineer Squadron maintenance and equipment craftsman, sights his bow in on a camouflaged mountain goat target while his dog Diesl stands by at the archery range just outside the base tail-spotter viewing area. The 13-acre site offers 50 diverse targets in a range of different environments. (Courtesy photo)
Download HiRes
Liberty Adventures: Medieval archers sighted near Lakenheath

Posted 10/29/2012   Updated 10/29/2012 Email story   Print story

    


by Maj. Maria Morgan
48th Medical Operations Squadron


10/29/2012 - ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- (EDITOR'S NOTE: No federal endorsement is intended or implied concerning places of interest or activities covered by 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs.)

You might catch a glimpse of them yourself as you roll down the A1065 between RAF Lakenheath and Brandon - stealthy archers in woodsmen's gear doggedly lobbing arrow after arrow into the brush.

What you might not have spotted from your car are the challenging and diverse archery courses that lie off the main road just 15 meters northeast of the Wangford Road light. So what's the reason for the archers' intense concentration? It's any one of more than 50 targets dotted around this sprawling, 13-acre site.

This is home to the Liberty Archers, a growing family of bowmen from all over the region. This privately-run club has something for everyone and the Members Only courses are open 365 days a year, rain or shine.

On the immaculately maintained tracks you will find traditional bull's-eye, 3-dimensional and improvised targets nestled amongst birches, deep amidst forest firs or out in the high meadow grass. This diversity offers archers the widest possible challenge to hone their skills as they enjoy the spectacular Suffolk outdoors on these fully-convenienced grounds.

Although bow hunting is prohibited in the U.K., many members enjoy keeping sharp for future hunts abroad.

Hailed as one of the prime archery clubs in the country, the Liberty Archers are very proud of their 29 year history. Several of their members have been there from its inception, providing much support for the developing club and its many budding bowmen over the years.

Members range in age from five to 75 years old, with many young archers learning this challenging sport at their parent's knees - literally.

This club is more than just a source of camaraderie and friendly rivalry, though, as experienced 'old dogs' are quick to share their hard won tricks with each new member.

The Liberty Archers are also honored members of The National Field Archery Society.

The club sponsors several events a year, each with its own theme, for which participants enthusiastically role play. A recent two-day event, during which the forest was awash with swashbuckling archers, drew more than 200 competitors and visitors.

The next event is the Turkey Shoot on Nov. 18, which promises to be a fun-filled weekend for young and old alike. There will be feasting, bold tales and - of course - much high-spirited competition for top prizes!

Membership is just £25 per year for the entire family. For details on attending the Turkey Shoot or becoming a member, contact Randy or Ruth Borden at hearthfire7@aol.com or call 01638 428 327 before 9 p.m.



tabComments
No comments yet.  
Add a comment

 Inside Lakenheath

ima cornerSearch

tabFeatured Links

Community Events
Useful Contacts
Commander's Action Line
PA Support
School Liaison
Civilian Personnel
Five Day Forecast
At the movies

tabLiberty Spotlight Submission
If you have someone you would like to be considered for Liberty Spotlight, please refer to the Spotlight submission page by clicking here. 

NOTE: All submissions must be approved by the commander or first sergeant.
tabPublic Affairs Office
This webpage is maintained by the 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs office. For questions about what services we provide, contact us at:

48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Unit 5210 Box 215
APO AE 09461-0215
-----
The public affairs office is unable to redirect calls or provide phone numbers. If searching for a phone number on base, please call the base operator.
-----
Calling Base Operator from the continental U.S.:
Comm: 011 44 1638 521 110
DSN: 314-226-1110
-----
Calling Base Operator from within England:
Comm: 01638 521 110
DSN: 226-1110


Site Map      Contact Us     Questions     USA.gov     Security & Policy     No Fear Act     E-publishing