A NEW group — Devon and Somerset Lady Guns — has been launched to help like-minded women get together, learn to or improve their shooting skills, get some fresh air and have great fun!

With the help of the South West British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC), the first meeting took place to form the group. The group then gathered for its first morning of shooting tuition at Ashcombe Countryside Centre, followed by lunch at the Lay Arms, Kenn in Devon.

Debbie Ironside-Smith, chairman of the new group, said: 'This is a great opportunity for ladies interested in shooting who want to meet others that share their enthusiasm.

'It doesn't matter whether or not you have ever shot a gun before — the group's members have different experiences of shooting, ranging from the experienced clay shooter, regular game shooters and complete beginners.'

The group intends to arrange regular coaching tuition days, practise days and social events. Other activities might include team competitions, talks and game cookery evenings, gun dog training demonstrations. As the group grows more activities will be arranged across the two counties and possibly beyond. It will be up to the group to decide what they are most interested in and would like to do!

Jamie Stewart, South West regional director of the BASC said: 'This is an exciting opportunity for lady guns or those ladies aspiring to take up shooting in the South West to get involved. BASC are delighted to be associated with this initiative.'

For more information contact Debbie Ironside-Smith on [email protected]">[email protected] or 01626 890450, or have a look at the group's Facebook page.