Private School News

MTS CCF Shooting Team wins yet more trophies.

In April sharp shooting Merchants’ marksmen won the prestigious Red Rose Challenge.
The eight-strong team won the blue ribbon County of Lancaster Rifle Association annual event competing against 32 other teams from Combined Cadet Forces and gun clubs across the North-West.

Coached by Regimental Sergeant Major Simon Brett, the Merchants’ team proved to be the golden shots of the region. RSM Brett said: “Above all you need to be calm and focused and always prepared to develop your skills to the next level.” He added: “No one takes shooting a rifle lightly in the Merchants’ CCF. The cadets must learn to treat their weapons with respect and consider every safety precaution before they are allowed to complete target skill practice drills.”

The only girl in the team and a Petty Officer in the Navy section of the CCF, Sarah Irwin said: “I wouldn’t like to think I was one of the lads, just one of the team.” Team captain Colour Sergeant Stephen Williams said: “Sarah doesn’t get any special treatment and is expected to train hard, practice and be cool under pressure on the day.”