A growing archery club in Llanwrtyd Wells reached a milestone as it celebrated its first anniversary last weekend with an event open to the public.

The Cambrian Archers celebrated the occasion on Sunday, May 12 with a well attended public event that coincided with Archery GB’s ‘Start Archery Week’ - the theme for this year's week was mental health.

The Cambrian Archers are a not-for-profit community group which has grown significantly since its inception. The group now attracts participants both from the local area and from as far afield as Hay-on-Wye.

Cambrian Archers
The Cambrian Archers cater for a wide range of abilities (Image supplied)

The well-trained coaches at the club provide one-on-one and group teaching on Tuesday evenings and Sunday afternoons and cater for a wide range of abilities. However, people are also encouraged to become a member and attend either session just to “shoot a few arrows”.

One of its founders, Suzanne Clifton said: “We have been amazed at the response we have received and how quickly the club has grown. We are indebted to the financial support from the community particularly from local businessman Paul Newman and Lofftwen Forest Farms which has augmented our initial funding from Sports Wales.  This has enabled the club to provide a wide range of equipment and a purpose-built storage facility.

“Experience nationally has shown that children benefit significantly from the sport especially relating to mental health and it is apparent that providing the opportunity for local children to participate would be extremely well received.”

“Whilst the club is able to provide equipment for adults and very young children, demand is such that we are looking to develop a Junior Team and build on the group of youngsters who currently attend the free training sessions. To achieve this, new equipment is needed specifically for the 7-14 age range and we are seeking sponsorship to purchase the items necessary to realise this ambition,” added Ms Clifton.

Anyone who would like more details about becoming a member or local businesses who are willing to provide an element of sponsorship should contact Cambrian Archers on [email protected], on Facebook or by telephoning 0740 3845859.